The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has commissioned the ILERA EKO Surulere Divisional Office, marking another milestone in its efforts to expand access to affordable and quality healthcare for residents across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the newly inaugurated office will serve as a dedicated service centre for residents of Surulere and neighbouring communities, making it easier for individuals and families to enrol in the ILERA EKO health insurance scheme and access essential support services.
The new divisional office forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader strategy to deepen community access to social health insurance and move closer to achieving universal health coverage.
Officials said the facility will provide a convenient location where residents can register for ILERA EKO, make enquiries, receive guidance on available healthcare plans and obtain information about the benefits of the scheme.
According to the Lagos State Health Management Agency, bringing services closer to communities will improve public awareness and encourage more Lagos residents to participate in the state’s health insurance programme.
The agency explained that easier access to enrolment centres will help reduce barriers that often prevent residents from registering for health insurance.
The Surulere Divisional Office is expected to serve a wide range of beneficiaries, including families, traders, artisans, civil servants, private sector employees, market operators and small business owners.
Officials noted that expanding the agency’s physical presence across Lagos remains essential to ensuring that more people enjoy affordable healthcare without financial hardship.
The ILERA EKO scheme was introduced by the Lagos State Government to provide residents with access to quality healthcare services through an affordable health insurance model.
Under the programme, registered members can receive healthcare services at accredited hospitals and healthcare facilities across the state.
LASHMA stated that the scheme continues to improve access to medical care by encouraging preventive healthcare, early diagnosis and timely treatment for residents.
The agency added that health insurance plays a critical role in reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses while improving overall health outcomes.
Speaking on the importance of the new office, officials said the Surulere facility would strengthen engagement with local communities through increased awareness campaigns and enrolment drives.
They explained that the office would also provide continuous customer support to existing enrollees while assisting new applicants throughout the registration process.
Residents visiting the office will be able to obtain information about available healthcare plans, participating healthcare providers and procedures for accessing medical services.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every Lagos resident has the opportunity to benefit from affordable and accessible healthcare regardless of income level.
Officials described the commissioning as another important step towards achieving universal health coverage in Lagos State.
They noted that expanding access to health insurance remains one of the government’s priorities for strengthening the healthcare system and improving residents’ wellbeing.
The Lagos State Government has continued to invest in healthcare infrastructure, technology and human resources while promoting preventive healthcare initiatives across the state.
Health experts have consistently emphasised that wider health insurance coverage contributes to healthier communities by enabling early access to quality medical care.
LASHMA believes increasing enrolment in ILERA EKO will reduce financial pressure on households while encouraging regular medical check-ups and preventive healthcare.
The agency also reiterated its commitment to working with healthcare providers, community leaders and development partners to expand the reach of the programme.
Residents of Surulere and surrounding communities have been encouraged to visit the newly commissioned office to learn more about the scheme and complete their enrolment.
The agency noted that enrolling in ILERA EKO gives individuals and families access to a network of accredited healthcare providers offering quality medical services.
Officials added that continuous public education remains essential to ensuring that more residents understand the long-term benefits of social health insurance.
The Surulere Divisional Office is expected to improve customer experience by providing faster access to information, registration services and support for existing members.
Community stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as another positive step towards strengthening primary healthcare access and improving public health services in Lagos.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed that expanding the ILERA EKO programme remains a key component of its healthcare reform agenda aimed at delivering inclusive, affordable and sustainable healthcare.
As more divisional offices are established across the state, LASHMA says it will continue bringing healthcare services closer to residents while improving awareness, accessibility and enrolment.
The commissioning of the ILERA EKO Surulere Divisional Office reflects Lagos State’s ongoing commitment to building a healthier population through accessible health insurance and community-focused healthcare delivery.
Residents living or working in Surulere and its environs are encouraged to visit the new office, enrol in the ILERA EKO scheme and take advantage of the affordable healthcare services available through the programme.
