Introduction

You’ve been diligently paying your insurance premiums for months—maybe even years. Then one day, something happens: your car is involved in an accident, your shop gets robbed, or you’re admitted to the hospital unexpectedly.

The good news? You’re covered. But now comes the hard part—filing an insurance claim in Nigeria.

For many Nigerians, this process is unfamiliar, confusing, and sometimes frustrating. Yet filing an insurance claim doesn’t have to be stressful—if you understand the steps involved.

This guide walks you through the entire insurance claims process in Nigeria—from the moment the incident occurs to the final payout. Whether you have a health, life, auto, business, or property insurance policy, this article will give you the clarity and confidence to claim what’s rightfully yours.

1. Understand Your Insurance Policy Coverage

Before initiating any claim, it’s critical to understand your insurance policy. Many rejected claims happen because policyholders try to claim things not covered.

Key areas to check:

• Events or losses covered

• Exclusions (events not covered)

• Sum assured or claim limit

• Deductibles/excess

• Claim timeframes

Pro Tip: Always keep a physical or digital copy of your policy. Read it before you need it.

2. Notify Your Insurer Immediately

Once an incident happens, report it to your insurance company immediately—ideally within 24–48 hours.

You can notify them via:

• Phone call to the claims department

• Email (some insurers provide a claims-specific email)

• Online claims portal

• Physical visit to a branch

When notifying, clearly state:

• What happened

• Where and when it happened

• Who was involved

Tip: Save copies of your communication—especially email threads and reference numbers.

3. Collect All Required Claim Documents

Insurers won’t process a claim without supporting documents. These vary by policy type:

Auto Insurance:

• Police report

• Photos of vehicle damage

• Driver’s license and registration

• Repair estimate

• Insurance certificate

Health Insurance:

• Hospital report

• Medical receipts and diagnosis

• Admission and discharge summary

• NHIS/HMO ID

Life Insurance:

• Death certificate

• Beneficiary ID

• Completed claim form

• Burial permit

Property/Business Insurance:

• Inventory of stolen/damaged items

• Fire or police report

• Photos/videos of damage

• CAC registration documents

Tip: Make photocopies or digital scans of all documents.

4. Fill Out the Insurance Claim Form Correctly

Get the Nigerian insurance claim form from your provider via:

• Their office

• Company website (download)

• Email request

 Be honest and detailed. Exaggerated or false claims can lead to rejection or legal trouble.

Claim forms typically ask for:

• Policy number

• Details of the incident

• Witness information

• Bank account for payments

5. Submit the Claim Form and Documents

After filling the form and collecting documents, submit everything via:

• In-person at a branch

• Email (attach all scanned documents)

• Online claims portal

Ask for an acknowledgment letter or claim reference number to enable follow-up.

6. Expect a Claims Assessment or Inspection

Depending on your claim type, the insurance company may send a claims assessor or adjuster to:

• Inspect damaged property

• Interview you or witnesses

• Evaluate the losses

Tip: Cooperate fully. Don’t alter the scene until after inspection.

7. Claim Review and Approval

During this phase, your insurer will review:

• Whether the claim is valid

• If the requested amount is reasonable

• Whether there’s fraud or misrepresentation

This process may take a few days or several weeks, depending on:

• Complexity of the claim

• Type of insurance

• Responsiveness of both parties

Follow up regularly with your assigned claims officer.

8. Settlement of Approved Claims

If your claim is successful, the insurer will settle it by:

• Paying you directly (cash payout for life, health, property, etc.)

• Authorizing repairs (motor, fire, or property damage)

• Replacing items (depending on policy terms)

 Always check the claim settlement amount against your policy.

If dissatisfied:

• Ask for a breakdown

• Dispute politely

• Request reevaluation with supporting documents

9. What to Do If Your Insurance Claim Is Rejected

Not every claim is approved. Common reasons include:

• Policy exclusions

• Delayed or incomplete documentation

• Non-disclosure or false claims

• Claiming for non-covered events

Your rights:

• Request a written rejection letter

• File a complaint with your insurer’s customer service

• Escalate the issue to NAICOM Nigeria if unresolved

 To report to NAICOM, visit: www.naicom.gov.ng

10. Top Tips for Successful Claims in Nigeria

 Read your policy in full before you need it
 Keep all receipts, photos, and communication
 Report claims quickly—don’t wait
 Always provide honest and accurate information
 Get official reports (police, hospital, fire) when required
 Don’t repair damage until the insurer assesses it

Conclusion

Filing an insurance claim in Nigeria can seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it becomes a manageable process.

Whether you’re claiming for a medical emergency, vehicle accident, life insurance payout, or stolen goods, following these steps increases your chances of a fast, fair claim settlement.

Call to Action

Have an active insurance policy?

 Save your insurer’s emergency contact
 Read and understand your policy coverage today
 Bookmark this guide—it may save you money, time, and stress

If you found this helpful, please share with someone who has insurance but doesn’t know how to file a claim. It could make a big difference.