Lagos State can inject over N400bn annually into healthcare financing with 20 million enrollees. Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi made this claim during the Lagos Private Health Partnership inauguration. The initiative aims to restructure health financing, expand insurance coverage, and improve equitable access for residents.
Abayomi stressed that widespread enrolment is essential to create a functional insurance ecosystem. Without it, Lagos cannot deliver people-centred, fair, and effective healthcare. Despite Lagos’ strong economy and growing population, the state faces challenges including inadequate health financing, workforce attrition, low insurance penetration, and rising medical tourism.
The LPHP seeks to restore fairness, transparency, quality, and sustainability in the healthcare system. It achieves this through a collaborative procurement platform and value-driven approaches. Lagos State implements health insurance via the Lagos State Health Scheme, also called ‘Ìlera Èkó’. Enrollment is compulsory for residents, employers, and workers under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s July 2024 Executive Order.
The policy mandates enrolment in either state-run or accredited private insurance to access non-emergency public healthcare. The LPHP is supported by a digital marketplace enabling enrollment, provider selection, fund flow, claims management, monitoring, and reporting. Compliance footprints ensure transparency and accountability throughout the system.
Abayomi highlighted that competition will shift from price-driven rivalry to value-driven outcomes. Standardized plans, quality assurance, and oversight by HEFAMAA will enhance service delivery. By leveraging technology and policy reforms, Lagos aims to build a sustainable healthcare financing system.
If fully implemented, LPHP can transform healthcare accessibility, efficiency, and quality for millions of Lagos residents. The program promises long-term improvements in population health and financial protection.
