Reported by: Ijeoma G. | Edited by: Henry Owen
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has reinforced his administration’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage, announcing the signing of an Executive Order making health insurance mandatory for all residents of Lagos State. The announcement was made at the maiden edition of the 2025 Eko Health Convention, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Health at Jewel Aeida, Lekki, under the theme: “Lagos Health: Driving Innovation, Strengthening Systems, Leading Change.”
Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the Governor explained that the move aligns with the National Health Insurance Act, ensuring that every Lagosian contributes according to their ability while receiving adequate protection when they need care.
“When we launched the Ilera Eko health insurance scheme in February 2021, we made it clear that universal coverage requires a reliable and inclusive system. By making health insurance mandatory, we protect families from financial hardship, strengthen hospitals, and make healthcare stable and equitable for all,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
The Governor highlighted that effective health insurance must be complemented by strong emergency response systems, noting the role of the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) in ensuring rapid, efficient, and compassionate medical care. He said Lagos now boasts 360 public health facilities and over 3,500 private facilities, forming a comprehensive ecosystem that bridges public-private divides.
Sanwo-Olu called on health stakeholders to invest in innovation, expand corporate social responsibility, and use technology to build a healthcare system where access is determined by need, not income. He stressed that good health is a shared responsibility, urging residents to enroll in health insurance, participate in vaccination programs, eliminate mosquito breeding sites, report quackery, and adopt healthy lifestyles.
The Governor also highlighted key achievements under his administration, including:
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Commissioning of new Maternal and Child Centres in Eti-Osa, Badagry, and Epe.
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Renovation and expansion of General Hospitals.
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Construction of critical health facilities, including the New Massey Street Specialist Children’s Hospital, Ojo General Hospital, Lagos State Mental Health Institute in Ketu-Ejirin, and the Cardio-Renal Centre in Gbagada.
Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said the state’s health transformation blueprint aims to reduce mortality, curb outbound medical tourism (estimated at $1.5 billion annually), and position Lagos as Africa’s healthcare hub. The plan includes climate-resilient hospitals, a 500-bed psychiatric and rehabilitation centre, the establishment of Lagos State University of Medicine and Health Science, and a Smart Health Information Platform (SHIP) for efficient data management across facilities.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, emphasized collaboration through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) as vital for achieving universal access and quality healthcare. She said the state government seeks to educate and empower citizens to take control of their health and wellness, ensuring sustainable, high-quality healthcare for all Lagos residents.
The Governor’s initiatives mark a significant step toward building a modern, inclusive, and technologically advanced health system capable of serving as a model for Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.
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