Governor Sanwo-Olu Signs Historic Executive Order to Revolutionize Healthcare in Lagos State

In a landmark move demonstrating its unwavering commitment to quality healthcare for all, the Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has signed a transformative Health Insurance Executive Order. This bold directive, signed on July 16, 2024, marks a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare delivery across the state through a strategic partnership involving the Ministry of Health, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), and the private sector.

At the heart of this initiative is the “Ilera Eko” Social Health Insurance Scheme, which aims to provide a structured, regulated, and inclusive health insurance system for all Lagosians. Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the National Health Insurance Authority Act 2022, emphasizing that it is poised to significantly improve health outcomes by ensuring that no resident is left behind.

Prof. Abayomi explained that social health insurance, widely practiced globally, offers numerous socio-economic benefits, including pooling contributory funds and spreading risk across large groups, thereby minimizing individual financial exposure. The Lagos State scheme is designed to support Universal Health Coverage (UHC), ensuring that everyone has access to essential healthcare services without financial hardship.

The Executive Order outlines several key components, including the promotion of health insurance, enforcement of a grace period, fostering public-private partnerships, and ensuring quality assurance through rigorous monitoring. It also makes provisions for funding vulnerable groups, ensuring that even the most disadvantaged residents have access to quality healthcare.

Expressing gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his visionary leadership, Prof. Abayomi stated, “Governor Sanwo-Olu’s bold vision and unwavering commitment to healthcare reform will undoubtedly transform healthcare delivery in Lagos State, setting a benchmark for others to follow. We are building a healthcare system that serves everyone, and with the support of all stakeholders, we will make this vision a reality.”