Flexible Payment Model Boosts Health Insurance Enrollment in Lagos
In a strategic move to deepen access to healthcare and expand insurance coverage, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has introduced a flexible payment system designed to make health insurance more accessible to residents across the state.
The initiative, known as the EasyPay platform, allows individuals and families to save gradually toward their health insurance premiums over a three-month period, removing the long-standing barrier of lump-sum payments. The development was unveiled on Monday, April 27, 2026, during LASHMA’s first-quarter media parley, which brought together government officials, healthcare stakeholders, educators, journalists, students, and parents.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, explained that the new system was developed in response to current economic pressures affecting many Lagos residents, particularly those in the informal sector.
“The model is simple save small but pay complete,” she said. “Once your premium is completed, your health insurance becomes active immediately for one year. This approach encourages a savings culture and ensures that more people can access healthcare without financial strain.”
Under the EasyPay plan, individuals can contribute up to ₦15,000 toward a personal health insurance package, while a family of four can save ₦55,000 and a family of six ₦80,000 within the three-month window to activate coverage. The wallet-based platform also offers secure transactions, automated tracking of payments, and the possibility of earning interest on savings.
Beyond easing payment challenges, LASHMA is intensifying efforts to ensure universal health insurance coverage across Lagos State. Dr. Zamba disclosed that enforcement of the Executive Order signed in 2024 mandating health insurance for all residents has commenced in phases.
The first phase targets Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), where residents are now required to present proof of enrollment in the Ilera Eko scheme before accessing government services. According to her, compliance assessments have already been conducted, and MDAs are being equipped with enrollment support systems, including help desks.
“Any MDA you visit is expected to request proof of Ilera Eko enrollment. This is critical to achieving widespread coverage,” she emphasized.
Subsequent phases will extend enforcement to the informal sector including artisans, traders, and transport workers and later to the organized private sector, often referred to as Corporate Lagos. To support this rollout, stakeholder engagement initiatives are ongoing across local government and council development areas.
Also speaking, Technical Assistant to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Nifemi Akinnagbe, highlighted ongoing assessments of healthcare facilities to ensure readiness for increased enrollment.
“Our goal is that every patient interaction becomes an opportunity for enrollment. If you visit a facility without insurance, you should be enrolled before you leave,” he said, noting that vulnerable populations would continue to benefit from the state’s equity fund.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaye, stressed the importance of early education in sustaining the initiative. He noted that engaging young people would help drive long-term adoption of health insurance.
Reinforcing this approach, the event also featured recognition of winners of the ILERA Eko Essay Competition. Outstanding students from across the state were awarded cash prizes and designated as ILERA EKO Advocates, tasked with promoting health insurance awareness within their communities.
Academic and media stakeholders also lent their support. A representative of the Lagos State University Vice Chancellor commended the initiative for fostering innovation among young people, while the International Society of Media in Public Health emphasized the role of informed journalism in improving public understanding and uptake of health insurance.
With the introduction of EasyPay and strengthened enforcement mechanisms, Lagos State is taking decisive steps toward achieving inclusive, affordable, and sustainable healthcare coverage for all residents.