Lagos State's Health Insurance to Start in 2027, Experts Warn

Health experts have cautioned that the mandatory health insurance policy in Lagos State must ensure real financial protection for residents rather than add to their economic burdens. This warning follows Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's announcement of the enforcement of compulsory health insurance starting January 1, 2027, with a grace period until December 31, 2026.

The initiative is based on Executive Order EO/BOS/01/2024, signed on July 16, 2024, aimed at making healthcare access independent of an individual's financial capacity at the time of illness. Public policy expert Clifford Egbomeade emphasized that the policy's success hinges on delivering value, reducing out-of-pocket expenses, and ensuring quality care access.

Lagos recorded 2.76 million insured residents in 2025, with a target of 10 million. The increase in the Health Equity Fund from N1 billion to N3 billion is seen as positive for vulnerable residents.

Dr Njide Ndili, President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, echoed the importance of affordability and adequate subsidies for low-income residents to achieve universal health coverage.