Oba of Lagos Backs Mandatory Health Insurance, Urges Full Enforcement
The Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Rilwan Akiolu, has called on the Lagos State Government to fully enforce its compulsory health insurance policy, describing it as a vital step toward building a healthier and more resilient population.
Speaking at a recent public event in the state, Oba Akiolu threw his weight behind the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda, urging residents to cooperate with authorities and embrace the Lagos State Health Scheme, popularly known as Ilera Eko.
“Everyone must be covered,” the Oba stated, adding that access to quality healthcare should no longer be treated as a privilege but as a right for all residents of Lagos.
His comments come as the Lagos State Government intensifies preparations for the full enforcement of its health insurance law, which mandates that all residents be enrolled in a recognized health plan.
This move is in line with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act 2022, which empowers states to make health insurance mandatory within their jurisdictions.
In July 2024, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu signed an executive order that formally introduced compulsory health insurance for all Lagosians—employers, employees, informal sector workers, and self-employed individuals alike.
The directive sets the stage for a state-wide rollout of health coverage, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket expenses and improve access to essential services.
The government has since launched initiatives such as the Ilera ‘N Tiwa Cooperative and the Ilera Eko Academy, which are designed to encourage enrollment, particularly among informal sector workers.
These programs recruit and train community-based agents to carry out grassroots sensitization and assist residents with registration and claims processing.
Under the new framework, residents without active health insurance may be restricted from accessing non-emergency services at public health facilities starting from the third quarter of 2025.
The state government has also indicated that continuous public awareness campaigns will accompany the enforcement process.
Public health experts have welcomed both the Oba’s endorsement and the policy itself, noting that Lagos is leading by example in a country where less than 5% of the population is covered by any form of health insurance.
They argue that such reform is essential to reduce healthcare inequities and ensure financial protection, particularly for vulnerable populations.
While some residents have raised concerns about affordability, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has assured the public that multiple packages are available to suit different income levels, with special subsidies for the elderly, pregnant women, children, and people living with disabilities.
As enforcement draws near, Oba Akiolu’s support adds a powerful cultural and moral backing to the initiative.
His statement is expected to influence wider public acceptance and encourage compliance across traditional communities.
The coming months will be critical in determining how successfully the state can translate policy into practice. For now, Lagos appears firmly committed to the vision of universal health coverage, with both government and traditional institutions aligned in purpose.
