Lagos to Enforce Mandatory Health Insurance by 2026 — Here’s What You Need to Know
In a landmark move to guarantee affordable healthcare access for all, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to enforce mandatory health insurance for all residents starting early 2026. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
This was revealed during the 2025 ILERA EKO Annual Provider Forum, a gathering of over 800 healthcare stakeholders organized by the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA).
💰 N3 Billion Equity Fund Announced for the Vulnerable
To support this transition, the Sanwo-Olu administration has tripled the Health Equity Fund from ₦1 billion to ₦3 billion, making Lagos the first and only state in Nigeria to prioritize funding for the poor as a first-line charge.
“From N1 billion in 2024, Mr. Governor increased it to N3 billion this year, demonstrating true leadership and a firm commitment to equity,”
– Dr. Adebayo Adedewe, LASHMA Board Chairman
📆 Enforcement Begins in 2026 – Residents Must Get Onboard
According to Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, enforcement will kick off in 2026, based on an Executive Order signed in July 2024.
“We want all residents to be aware and onboard before enforcement begins,” she said, urging Lagosians to register now and avoid future sanctions.
🏥 Key Reforms That Make ILERA EKO Stand Out:
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✔️ Over 865 healthcare providers now enpanelled
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✔️ Introduction of biometric verification with LASRRA to reduce fraud
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✔️ Faster claim processing with in-house authorisation systems
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✔️ Access through community pharmacies to expand reach
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✔️ Performance-based provider rewards using global SafeCare standards
🧠 Why This Matters
Universal Health Coverage (UHC) has been a key global health goal. For Lagos, this means:
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Financial protection for families during health emergencies
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Guaranteed payments for healthcare providers
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Expanded access to underserved communities
“We’re not just building a health system—we’re building trust,”
– Njide Ndili, President, Healthcare Federation of Nigeria
🏆 Celebrating Excellence
Outstanding clinics and hospitals were recognized for:
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Clinical service delivery
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Audit compliance
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Data accuracy
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Enrolment drives
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Facility improvements
🗣️ What Stakeholders Are Saying:
Dr. Olusegun Ogboye (Ministry of Health):
“This is a win-win for providers and patients alike.”
Biola Paul-Ozie (HCPAN):
“Let’s eliminate discrimination and deliver care with dignity.”
Njide Ndili (PharmAccess):
“Trust drives participation—and participation drives sustainability.”
🛡️ Final Word:
Mandatory health insurance is coming. Lagos is leading the charge toward a future where no resident is denied care due to cost. Get registered. Get covered. Get protected.