The Lagos State Government has inaugurated the Health Scheme Enforcement Team to activate mandatory health insurance across the state. This development follows Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Executive Order aimed at achieving universal social health coverage. Importantly, the initiative seeks to ensure that no resident is denied access to healthcare due to financial limitations.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Alausa, brought together key stakeholders from state and federal institutions. Together, they reaffirmed their commitment to expanding healthcare access through the Ilera-Eko Social Health Insurance Scheme. The gathering emphasized collaboration as a critical driver of successful implementation.
Speaking at the event, Head of Service Olabode Agoro described the inauguration as a major milestone in Lagos health reforms. He highlighted the government’s dedication to affordable, accessible, and sustainable healthcare for residents. According to him, extensive engagements with Permanent Secretaries and agency heads ensured institutional alignment and ownership.
Agoro explained that enforcement would begin in phases, starting with Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. It will later extend to local councils, the formal sector, and corporate organizations. He clarified that enforcement is not punitive but focused on advocacy and compliance encouragement.
However, access to certain government services will require proof of Ilera-Eko enrollment. Additionally, public servants must present enrollment evidence during monthly audits, or risk salary suspension.
Meanwhile, NHIA Director-General Kelechi Ohiri praised Lagos for leading mandatory health insurance implementation. He noted its alignment with national health reforms and stressed insurance as protection against catastrophic medical costs.
Similarly, LASHMA Permanent Secretary Emmanuella Zamba highlighted the scheme’s diverse plans. She added that trained enforcement officers will operate with professionalism, fairness, and integrity.
