The Lagos State Government has announced plans to commence the enforcement of mandatory health insurance for all residents starting early 2026. This move aligns with an Executive Order signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2025.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Dr. Emmanuel Zamba, disclosed this during the Ilera Eko Providers Forum held at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja. The event brought together key stakeholders from across the health insurance ecosystem—including healthcare providers, Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs), and technical partners—to assess progress and chart strategies for future implementation.

The Executive Order mandates that all Lagos residents must present proof of enrollment in a health insurance scheme before accessing non-emergency services in public healthcare facilities.

“We want every resident to be informed and onboarded before enforcement begins,” Dr. Zamba said, urging the public to view the policy as a financial safeguard for their health.

He reassured residents that emergency care would remain accessible without proof of insurance. “Nobody will be denied urgent care. Our emergency services programme is being finalised to ensure immediate attention in critical cases,” he added.

To enhance identity verification and combat fraud, Zamba announced a new partnership between LASHMA and the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA). This initiative will introduce biometric card readers across health facilities to prevent impersonation and ensure that only legitimate enrollees benefit from the scheme.

Highlighting innovation, Zamba revealed that LASHMA is expanding into diagnostics, telemedicine, and virtual care. “Even in underserved areas, residents will be able to consult doctors 24/7 through a toll-free number or via our mobile app. We’ve also deployed virtual booths in marketplaces to offer health education and instant consultations,” he explained.

Dr. Zamba described the Ilera Eko Providers Forum as more than an informational session—it serves as a critical feedback mechanism. Going forward, LASHMA will host quarterly engagement meetings to incorporate partner feedback into improving the scheme’s delivery.

“This is a collaborative effort. For this partnership to succeed, it must benefit all stakeholders. We’re committed to listening and working together to find lasting solutions,” he affirmed.

He also disclosed that over 865 healthcare providers have been accredited under the Ilera Eko scheme, covering services from primary care to specialized dental and eye care, as well as community pharmacies.

“Our providers are now frontline agents of enrollment,” Zamba said, adding that they are being trained not just to deliver healthcare but to onboard clients directly at their facilities.

So far, over 400 providers have received training through the newly established Ilera Eko Academy—an initiative designed to equip providers with the skills and tools necessary to boost enrollment and ensure seamless implementation of the scheme.