Health insurance expansion in Lagos is gaining renewed attention as the state health management agency rolls out new strategies to reach more residents, particularly in the informal sector.
The Lagos State Health Management Agency says it has intensified efforts to expand coverage, focusing on improved access, stronger compliance and higher enrolment among low-income earners.
The Permanent Secretary of the agency, Emmanuella Zamba, disclosed this on Monday at the LASHMA 2026 first quarter media parley, noting that reforms are anchored on policy enforcement, payment innovation and stakeholder engagement.
She said a wallet-based payment system, “Ilera Eko Easy Pay”, has been introduced to allow residents spread premium payments over three months, easing financial pressure and improving affordability.
She also confirmed the enforcement of a 2024 executive order mandating health insurance coverage for Lagos residents, adding that proof of enrolment is now required before accessing services in government ministries, departments and agencies.
According to her, compliance monitoring has begun within public institutions, with early results showing improved uptake among civil servants.
She added that the next phase will extend enforcement to the informal sector and vulnerable groups, before reaching corporate organisations.
She disclosed that 72 journalists were trained in partnership with the International Society of Media Persons in Public Health to boost awareness and reporting on health insurance.
The agency also said it has restructured operations with cluster managers and community officers to improve outreach and simplify enrolment.
A statewide essay competition for public school students attracted 713 entries, as part of efforts to promote early awareness of preventive healthcare.
Officials added that the “Ilera Eko Easy Pay” platform operates as a mobile wallet, enabling gradual savings, secure transactions and family-based enrolment.
They also noted ongoing grassroots engagement through local governments and town hall meetings, alongside a government equity fund supporting vulnerable residents who cannot afford premiums.
Quality assurance checks are also being carried out across healthcare facilities to ensure compliance with required standards.
