LASHMA unveils EasyPay scheme to boost health insurance coverage
The Lagos State Government has introduced a new flexible payment solution aimed at expanding health insurance coverage, particularly among low- and middle-income earners in the informal sector. The initiative, known
The Lagos State Government has introduced a new flexible payment solution aimed at expanding health insurance coverage, particularly among low- and middle-income earners in the informal sector. The initiative, known as ILERA EKO EasyPay, was unveiled by the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) during its 2026 first-quarter media parley in Alausa, Ikeja. The wallet-based platform allows residents to make incremental contributions toward their health insurance premiums, easing the burden of lump-sum payments.
Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, said the platform was designed in response to prevailing economic realities and to remove financial barriers that prevent many residents from enrolling in health insurance. “This platform ensures that more Lagos residents can access quality healthcare without the burden of large upfront payments. We are not denying anyone their rights; rather, we are creating structured pathways to ensure every resident is covered,” she said.
According to Zamba, the EasyPay system builds on the existing “Pay-Small-Small” model and enables individuals to save gradually over a period of up to three months until they complete their premium payments. Once the required amount is reached, health insurance coverage becomes automatically active for one year. She explained that individuals can save up to N15,000 for a personal plan, while families of four and six can contribute N55,000 and N80,000 respectively to activate coverage. The platform also offers secure transactions, automated tracking of payments, and the possibility of earning interest on savings. “The model is simple—save small but pay complete. Once your premium is completed, your health insurance becomes active immediately,” Zamba added.
The introduction of EasyPay comes as the state intensifies enforcement of its mandatory health insurance policy under Executive Order BOS/01/2024, signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The policy requires all residents and workers in Lagos to enrol in a health insurance scheme. Zamba disclosed that enforcement has commenced in phases, beginning with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), where access to certain government services is now tied to proof of enrolment under the ILERA EKO scheme. “Any MDA you go to in Lagos State is expected to require proof of ILERA EKO before granting access to services. This is to ensure wider coverage and compliance,” she, adding that the next phase of enforcement would extend to the informal sector—including artisans, traders and transport workers—before covering the organised private sector.
To support implementation, LASHMA has conducted compliance assessments across MDAs and introduced verification systems that allow agencies to confirm residents’ enrolment status through dedicated portals. The agency has also restructured its operations, deploying cluster managers and area commanders to strengthen grassroots engagement and simplify registration processes. Technical Assistant to the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Nifesimi Akinnagbe, said the enforcement strategy adopts a “gatekeeping” approach, where residents are required to show evidence of enrolment before accessing services in public institutions. He noted that healthcare facilities have also been integrated into the framework, with hospitals expected to request proof of enrolment and register uninsured patients at the point of care.
As part of efforts to ensure inclusivity, the state government has increased its health insurance equity fund for vulnerable residents from N1 billion to N3 billion. The fund is designed to provide subsidised or free coverage for indigent persons identified at healthcare facilities. “Vulnerable persons identified at health facilities will not only receive immediate care but will also be enrolled under the state’s subsidised insurance programme for future treatment,” Zamba said.
Beyond policy enforcement, LASHMA has intensified public awareness and stakeholder engagement. The agency recently trained 72 journalists in collaboration with the International Society of Media in Public Health to enhance reporting on health insurance. It also launched youth-focused initiatives, including the ILERA EKO Essay Competition, which attracted over 700 entries from public school students. Winners are to serve as ambassadors to promote awareness of health insurance within their communities.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to universal health coverage, Zamba emphasised the need for sustained collaboration with the media and other stakeholders. “Health insurance is not a luxury; it is a necessity,” she said. With the rollout of EasyPay and the phased enforcement of compulsory health insurance, Lagos State is positioning itself to significantly expand coverage, reduce out-of-pocket healthcare costs, and improve access to quality medical services for residents across all socio-economic groups.
