The Lagos State Government has announced plans to enforce mandatory health insurance for all residents starting from early 2026. This move is part of the government’s effort to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and provide financial risk protection for its residents. According to Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), the enforcement will begin in earnest in early 2026, following an Executive Order signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2024.
The mandatory health insurance scheme is designed to ensure that all residents have access to quality healthcare without facing financial hardship. The government has also increased its health equity fund to ₦3 billion, prioritizing access for vulnerable and indigent citizens. This move is expected to reduce the financial burden on residents and provide them with access to necessary medical care.
Key Features of the Mandatory Health Insurance Scheme
– Compulsory Enrollment: All residents of Lagos State are required to enroll in a health insurance scheme, regardless of their socio-economic status.
– Access to Public Healthcare: Residents will be required to show evidence of enrollment in a health insurance scheme before accessing public health services, excluding emergencies.
– Financial Protection: The scheme is designed to provide financial protection for residents, ensuring that they do not face financial hardship when accessing healthcare.
Implementation and Enforcement
The Lagos State Government has urged residents to enroll in the health insurance scheme before the enforcement begins in 2026. The government has also assured residents that it will provide adequate support and guidance to ensure a smooth transition to the new scheme. With the enforcement of mandatory health insurance, Lagos is taking a decisive step towards universal healthcare access and financial risk protection for its residents.
Benefits of the Scheme
The mandatory health insurance scheme is expected to have several benefits for residents, including:
– Increased Access to Quality Healthcare: Residents will have access to necessary medical care without facing financial hardship.
– Financial Protection: The scheme will provide financial protection for residents, reducing the burden of medical expenses.
– Improved Health Outcomes: The scheme is expected to improve health outcomes for residents, reducing mortality rates and improving overall well-being.
