The Lagos State government has announced that all state services will be cut off for residents and employees who do not enroll in the state’s health insurance plan, except in life-threatening situations. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu issued an executive order directing all ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) to provide services only to those registered under the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) or accredited private health insurance providers.
The directive, dated July 16, is rooted in the Lagos State Health Scheme Law of 2015 and the National Health Insurance Act of 2022. Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that this move aims to enhance the health sector and achieve universal health coverage (UHC).
“All residents and workers in Lagos State who do not possess a valid social health insurance plan will be required to register or renew their expired plans before they can access any public or private healthcare facility in the State,” stated Sanwo-Olu in the executive order.
In emergencies, healthcare facilities are instructed to stabilize patients without requesting proof of insurance. However, once stabilized, patients must provide evidence of enrollment or register for a plan.
To support vulnerable residents who cannot afford insurance, the government has pledged to release equity funds for their coverage. Designated officers in public healthcare facilities will profile these individuals and refer them to LASHMA for enrollment under the equity fund.
Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the importance of compliance with the new directive, stating, “This executive order is issued to promote and provide quality healthcare services to all residents irrespective of their financial status. There shall be full compliance or enforcement of the provisions of this executive order, which takes effect immediately.”
The National Health Insurance Act of 2022 mandates that all Nigerian residents obtain health insurance, with coverage provided by states, the Federal Capital Territory, and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) for various sectors.
