Lagos Starts Mandatory Health Insurance for Residents
* Lagos Starts Mandatory Health Insurance for Residents* The Lagos State Government has begun enforcing its ILERA EKO health insurance scheme, requiring all residents to enroll. Proof of enrollment is now needed to access some government services, and the program will soon include the informal sector. Officials said the scheme, backed by the Lagos State Health Scheme Law of 2015, aims to provide fair and sustainable healthcare. Local governments are being asked to lead enrollment efforts and support vulnerable residents. A 26-member Enforcement Team has been set up to ensure compliance. Health Commissioner Prof. Akin Abayomi noted that many Nigerians still pay for healthcare out of pocket, which is not sustainable. LASHMA said awareness campaigns, door-to-door visits, and local networks will help reach residents. All 57 council chairmen were named ILERA EKO Champions, with ten honoured for extra support to vulnerable residents.
