The Lagos State Government has given residents, workers and employers until December 31, 2026, to secure health insurance coverage ahead of the full enforcement of its compulsory health insurance policy on January 1, 2027.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the deadline on Tuesday during the launch of the Lagos Private Health Plan (LPHP) Partnership and the commencement of the enforcement campaign in Victoria Island, Lagos.
The three-month grace period, which runs from October to December, will allow individuals and organisations to register for suitable health insurance plans before the government begins full enforcement.
The policy operates under Executive Order EO/BOS/01/2024, signed by the governor on July 16, 2024. It requires residents, including employees, self-employed individuals and unemployed persons, to enroll in a recognised social health insurance scheme.
Sanwo-Olu explained that the initiative aims to reduce residents’ dependence on out-of-pocket payments for medical treatment and protect households from financial hardship during illness.
As part of the rollout, the government unveiled the Lagos Private Health Plans to extend coverage to salaried workers and corporate organisations. The new arrangement complements Ilera Eko, the existing state health insurance scheme designed to support vulnerable residents and informal sector workers.
The launch also featured 21 participating Health Maintenance Organisations, which will provide insurance options under the expanded programme.
The government has established an implementation steering committee and an enforcement task force to coordinate the programme and monitor compliance. Authorities will also assess participating HMOs’ performance, including hospital payments, claims settlement and the delivery of covered medical services.
According to the state government, contributions from the private plans will also support the Lagos State Health Equity Fund, which assists residents who cannot afford insurance premiums.
The government urged residents, workers and employers to complete their enrollment before the December deadline to avoid difficulties when enforcement begins in January 2027.
