The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has reinforced its commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) with fresh initiatives aimed at increasing enrollment in the ILERA EKO health insurance scheme.
Speaking at the 2025 Q1 Media Parley held at the LASHMA Conference Room in Alausa, Ikeja, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, outlined strategic measures to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for all Lagos residents.
Zamba stressed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Executive Order on Social Health Insurance Scheme has made health insurance a mandatory requirement for all residents, positioning public awareness as a key priority for LASHMA.
“We are committed to ensuring that every Lagosian is adequately sensitized and educated on the significance and compulsory nature of social health insurance,” she stated, adding that the agency would sustain quarterly media engagements to provide updates and strengthen advocacy for UHC.
A key highlight of the event was the introduction of ILERA ‘N TIWA Cooperative, designed to integrate the informal sector into the health insurance framework.
According to Zamba, the initiative offers flexible payment plans for artisans, traders, and low-income earners, ensuring broader access to quality healthcare.
She also spoke on the recently launched ILERA EKO Academy, established to train a larger sales force to increase public awareness and drive enrollment.
“This academy serves as a platform for training agents who will educate Lagosians on the benefits of enrolling in ILERA EKO,” she explained.
The academy has already trained 250 sales agents between 2024 and 2025, with more training sessions planned.
Expanding its accessibility, LASHMA has introduced multiple registration options, including physical enrollment centers across Lagos, designated community pharmacies, USSD registration, and an online portal.
“Let me reiterate that ILERA EKO is mandatory for every resident in Lagos State. For those yet to enroll, registration has been simplified. You can register at our Head Office, divisional offices, kiosks across the State, or at any Community Pharmacy under the ILERA EKO Scheme,” she said.
“You can also self-register via our USSD Code *6700006# or visit our website at www.lashma.com. Our goal is to keep ILERA EKO at the forefront of public consciousness, and we encourage residents to utilize these easy registration methods. Should you face any challenges, our 24/7 Customer Service Centre is available via 0800-ILERA EKO (0800-453722356), 0800-ASKLASHMA (0800-275527462), and WhatsApp messaging at 07045358275 or 07046160051,” Zamba added.
She called on journalists to play an active role in promoting the scheme.
“While we celebrate our progress, much work remains. The media is a key partner in raising awareness and debunking myths surrounding health insurance,” she noted, urging continued collaboration in enlightening the public.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Kayode Oyekanmi praised LASHMA’s proactive efforts in expanding healthcare accessibility.
“Public awareness is crucial to the success of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s health sector initiatives. I urge journalists to give ILERA EKO robust publicity to ensure its success,” he remarked.
In his presentation, LASHMA’s Head of Business Development, Mr. Rotimi Olatunji, provided deeper insights into ILERA ‘N TIWA Cooperative, describing it as a financial inclusion strategy tailored for individuals who struggle with upfront health insurance payments. “Through this initiative, members can make small, incremental payments while gaining access to healthcare and other social impact benefits,” he said.
He added that cooperative members would enjoy financial rewards, access to low-interest loans, preventive health programs, and a food bank initiative.
“We have adopted a multi-level marketing model, allowing members to earn commissions for referring others, creating a sustainable income stream for them,” he stated.
Mr. Olatunji further revealed that ILERA ‘N TIWA would commence full operations next week, with a registered steering committee comprising members of the informal sector.
“This is the first of its kind in Nigeria, and we encourage all residents to take advantage of this opportunity to access quality healthcare at minimal cost,” he added.
Technical Assistant on the Lagos Social Health Insurance Executive Order, Mr. Nifesimi Akinnagbe, outlined the legal framework backing the scheme.
“Governor Sanwo-Olu signed an Executive Order in July 2024, mandating the enforcement of social health insurance for all Lagos residents,” he noted.
He disclosed that LASHMA would intensify advocacy efforts through door-to-door sensitization campaigns. “By the third quarter of 2025, we will commence full enforcement of the executive order, ensuring compliance with the compulsory health insurance policy,” he stated.
During the event, enrollees of the ILERA EKO Health Insurance Scheme shared testimonies on how the initiative had transformed their access to healthcare. Elder David Alabi recounted how enrolling in ILERA EKO saved his life.
“If I had not subscribed to the ILERA EKO plan, I might have died,” he said. “An agent in Ikorodu introduced me to the scheme, and I immediately registered my entire family. Since then, we have received medical care without extra payments. I thank the Governor of Lagos State for this initiative.”
Similarly, Alhaja Sowemimo Airat Ayinke expressed appreciation for the scheme after benefiting from comprehensive health screenings. “A young lady introduced me to ILERA EKO, and three months after enrolling, I went to the hospital for a general body test. I didn’t pay a dime for all the medical tests I did,” she said, commending the Lagos State Government for prioritizing residents’ health.
With LASHMA’s renewed focus on accessibility, inclusivity, and awareness, the agency is set to make significant strides in transforming healthcare delivery in Lagos.
As Zamba put it, “ILERA EKO is not just a program; it is a movement towards a healthier, more secure Lagos. Together, we can achieve UHC and ensure no resident is left behind.”