Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu
The Lagos State Government has vowed to commence the enforcement of compulsory health insurance policy for residents.
This was contained in a Thursday signed by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health Management Agency, Dr Emmanuel Zamba.
According to her, the enforcement would begin in earnest in early 2026, in line with the Executive Order signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2025.
She made this known at the Ilera Eko Providers Forum held at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, where key stakeholders across the health insurance value chain, including healthcare providers, health maintenance organisations, and technical partners, gathered to review progress and discuss future implementation strategies.
The order mandates that residents must show evidence of enrolment in a health insurance scheme before accessing public health services, excluding emergencies.
The statement read, “We want all residents to be aware and onboard before enforcement begins.
“We are finalising our emergency services programme to ensure that no Lagos resident is denied urgent care.
“People in emergencies must be treated without first presenting an insurance,” the statement added.
To further strengthen identity management and prevent fraud, Zamba disclosed that LASHMA had partnered with the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency to roll out biometric card readers across health facilities.
“This will eliminate impersonation and ensure only genuine enrollees benefit from the scheme,” she said.
She also highlighted the agency’s expansion into diagnostics, telemedicine, and virtual care initiatives designed to extend access to remote and underserved populations.
“Even if there is no facility near you, you can dial a toll-free number or use our app for a live consultation with a doctor, 24/7.
“We have also installed virtual booths in marketplaces to provide health education and consultation services on the go” she explained.
The permanent secretary noted that the state currently has over 865 accredited providers, ranging from primary healthcare facilities to specialists in dental and eye care, as well as community pharmacies.
“Healthcare providers are now the gatekeepers of our scheme,” Zamba said, adding: “We are training them not just to offer care but to enrol clients right at their facilities as part of our broader strategy to drive up enrolment figures.”
