Lagos will begin enforcing its health insurance policy in early 2026, targeting wider coverage.
Authorities say residents must show proof of enrolment to access public healthcare, excluding emergencies.
The Lagos State Government has announced plans to commence enforcement of its compulsory health insurance policy from early 2026, following an Executive Order signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2025.
Dr Emmanuel Zamba, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), disclosed this during the Ilera Eko Providers Forum held Thursday at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja. The forum brought together stakeholders across the health insurance chain, including service providers, HMOs, and technical partners, to review progress and shape future strategies.
According to Zamba, the new policy requires residents to show proof of enrolment in a health insurance scheme before they can access public healthcare services excluding emergency cases.
“We want every resident informed and registered before the enforcement begins,” she said, describing the initiative as a protective financial mechanism for all Lagosians. “Nobody will be denied emergency care, even without insurance. We’re finalizing protocols to handle such situations effectively.”
To tackle fraud and improve service delivery, LASHMA has partnered with the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) to deploy biometric card readers at health facilities.
“This step will help eliminate impersonation and ensure only registered beneficiaries access care under the scheme,” Zamba stated.
She also highlighted ongoing innovations within the agency, including expansions into diagnostics, telemedicine, and virtual health services to reach underserved areas. Residents in remote communities will soon be able to consult doctors 24/7 via toll-free lines and mobile apps.
“In marketplaces, we’ve installed virtual booths offering real-time consultations and health education,” she added.
The Ilera Eko Providers Forum, Zamba noted, is more than a stakeholder gathering it is a critical feedback mechanism. To improve engagement, LASHMA will now hold quarterly meetings with providers to discuss challenges and adapt strategies.
“We see this as a partnership. And for any partnership to work, it must be based on listening and collaboration,” she said.
LASHMA currently works with over 865 accredited health providers, ranging from primary healthcare centers to specialists in dental, eye care, and community pharmacies. These providers, according to Zamba, are now expected to serve as both caregivers and enrollment points.
“To boost enrolment, we’re training providers to onboard clients directly at their facilities,” she explained.
So far, over 400 healthcare professionals have received training through the newly launched Ilera Eko Academy, a platform designed to equip providers with the knowledge and skills needed to support the scheme’s growth and implementation.
