Lagos to provide free health coverage for pensioners by August

In a bid to deepen insurance penetration in the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos state, in a landmark event held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, revealed that the Lagos State government is set to provide free healthcare coverage to pensioners by August.

At the event, which marked a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare landscape, aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility and affordability for Lagos residents, the Governor, and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat were also decorated as the Grand Ambassador of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and Ambassadors of Ilera-Eko Social Health Insurance Scheme in Lagos State by the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in his address, highlighted that the initiative is part of his administration’s goals to improve citizens’ health outcomes through universal health coverage.

Sanwo-Olu who spoke during the inauguration of the Ilera Eko Standard Jaara Health Insurance Plan and five virtual health booths noted that all public servants have enrolled under the state insurance scheme, with the government subsidizing 75 percent of their premiums.

“From August 2024, all Lagos State pensioners will receive free one-year coverage under the ILERA EKO plan, ensuring their access to healthcare in retirement,” Sanwo-Olu said.

The new plan offers additional benefits and reduces the financial burden of medical bills, according to the governor.

He urged the informal and formal sectors to enrol in the scheme, emphasizing that the subsidized premiums make healthcare accessible for everyone.

“We are committed to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and ensuring that no resident is left behind,” he stated.

The five ILERA EKO Virtual Health Booths launched in markets and bus stops are expected to improve access to healthcare, especially for people in informal jobs.

These booths will offer basic medical services and telemedicine consultations, allowing market traders and others to get care without leaving their work.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also emphasized the role of local government authorities and market leaders in supporting and maintaining these facilities.

He acknowledged their cooperation and urged other local councils to facilitate the installation of more virtual booths in their areas.

Kemi Ogunyemi,  special adviser to the Governor on Health said the new plan demonstrates the government’s commitment to bridging the gap in healthcare access and expanding the benefits available to enrollees.

She implored Lagos residents to register and enrol under the new health insurance plan to enjoy its numerous benefits.

“Health is wealth,” she said, urging residents to use the virtual booths whenever they face medical challenges.

She further emphasized the government’s commitment to preventing untimely deaths and ensuring that residents have access to quality healthcare.