Lagos State mandates health insurance for residents by 2026

The Lagos State Government has set a deadline of December 31, 2026, for residents to obtain health insurance, with enforcement of this mandatory policy beginning on January 1, 2027. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced this directive while launching the enforcement of mandatory health insurance under Executive Order EO/BOS/01 of 2024.

The initiative includes the introduction of the Lagos Private Health Plans aimed at salaried workers and corporate organizations, complementing the existing Ilera Eko scheme for vulnerable residents and the informal sector. Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the goal of the executive order is to ensure that every Lagos resident has health insurance and can access quality healthcare services without financial hardship.

He noted that all residents, employers, and workers are required to have social health insurance. The governor also stated that emergency medical care should not be denied due to financial constraints.

Additionally, 21 health maintenance organizations have endorsed participation in the new plans to enhance healthcare delivery.