Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, inaugurated a special insurance scheme aimed at enrolling at least one million additional members from the informal sector.
The scheme, named ILERA EKO Standard Jaara Health Insurance Plan, is designed to alleviate the burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses and ensure universal healthcare access across the state.
The inauguration ceremony, held at Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, also marked the commissioning of five Virtual Booths located at Ketu, Ayetoro, Sabo, Adamo, and Epe markets.
These booths are strategically placed to cater to market traders, providing convenient access to healthcare services.
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the state government’s commitment to subsidizing health insurance premiums, making healthcare accessible to all residents.
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He urged the informal sector, comprising 70 percent of the population, to enroll in ILERA EKO to reduce financial strain from medical bills. Additionally, he called on the formal sector to enroll their employees, noting the cost-saving benefits for companies.
“We are launching initiatives today that build on LASHMA’s legacy of improving healthcare accessibility,” Governor Sanwo-Olu stated.
“The ILERA EKO Standard Jaara Health Insurance Plan offers enhanced benefits and financial peace of mind, ensuring everyone can afford necessary medical care.”
Highlighting enforcement measures, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced the formation and training of an Enforcement team to implement the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) Law and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act. He warned against violations, underscoring the importance of compliance.
The Governor also celebrated the deployment of five Virtual Booths, designed to expand LASHMA’s reach and provide primary healthcare services directly to informal sector workers.
He emphasized the convenience for market traders who often find it challenging to leave their businesses for medical care.
Chairman of Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), Adebayo Adedewe, highlighted the agency’s commitment to quality and affordable healthcare.
He emphasized the use of technology for seamless registration, payment processes, and customer service, ensuring efficient service delivery.
“The ILERA EKO Standard Jaara Health Insurance Plan introduces new benefits like annual wellness checks, telemedicine services, and cataract surgeries,” Adedewe added.
“Our success is driven by feedback from customers, particularly from the informal sector, through platforms like weekly radio programs and social media.”
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, noted the agency’s expansion plans and affordability of health insurance, aiming to enroll an additional one million members within the next year.
