The Lagos State Health Management Agency has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to affordable and quality healthcare through strategic reforms and stakeholder engagement across Lagos State.
Eko Hot News reports that the agency held its 2026 first-quarter media parley at the LCCI OPTS Hall Ikeja, bringing together key stakeholders to review progress under the ILERA EKO initiative.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Olarenwaju Bajulaiye, called for increased awareness of LASHMA programmes. He emphasised the importance of public engagement in achieving universal healthcare access.
Bajulaiye reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring that residents benefit from accessible and efficient healthcare services. He urged stakeholders to support awareness campaigns across communities.
The Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Emmanuella Zamba, highlighted key achievements recorded in the first quarter of 2026. She noted that the agency continues to strengthen its operations and expand coverage.
Zamba disclosed that 72 journalists were trained in partnership with the International Society of Media in Public Health. The training focused on improving understanding of social health insurance and its impact.
She also revealed that LASHMA has completed its first compliance assessment of government agencies. This step is aimed at improving enrolment verification and enhancing system integration.
A major highlight of the event was the introduction of ILERA EKO EasyPay. The platform is designed to provide flexible payment options for residents, particularly low and middle-income earners.
According to Zamba, EasyPay will reduce financial barriers and make healthcare services more accessible. It is expected to encourage wider participation in the health insurance scheme.
The agency also partnered with the education sector to organise the ILERA EKO Essay Competition in public schools. The initiative aims to build early awareness and develop youth advocates for health insurance.
Updates on the implementation of the Executive Order for the first quarter showed improved enforcement across public, private, and informal sectors. These efforts are targeted at increasing compliance and expanding coverage.
Stakeholders noted that the reforms will enhance access to healthcare, especially for vulnerable groups. They also commended LASHMA’s approach to inclusive health policy development.
The event concluded with the presentation of awards to winners of the essay competition. Organisers said the recognition would encourage youth participation in promoting health awareness across Lagos State.
