In a vibrant display of commitment to ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for all, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) commemorated the Y2024 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day with an Awareness Walk. The walk traversed the Lagos State Government Secretariat, Alausa-Ikeja, and its environs, drawing attention to the importance of health insurance under the “Ilera Eko” initiative.

The procession commenced at the LASHMA Headquarters, Good Shepherd House, opposite Alausa Secretariat Gate. Participants made strategic stops at the Public Service Office, Lagos State Ministry of Health, and the Lagos State House of Assembly. The event attracted stakeholders across various sectors, reinforcing the government’s commitment to health equity.

Speaking on the significance of the event, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, emphasized the agency’s pivotal role in driving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Lagos. “Today, December 12th, is globally recognized as UHC Day. In Lagos State, we are committed to ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare through Ilera Eko, our state health insurance scheme,” she stated.

Dr. Zamba highlighted the agency’s achievements, including the rollout of an equity fund that guarantees healthcare access for over 300,000 vulnerable residents. She added, “This year, we began with a media parley to clarify misconceptions about health insurance and followed up with several activation activities. The equity fund, supported by 1% of Lagos State’s consolidated revenue, has set a benchmark as a first-line charge, ensuring funds are consistently available for vulnerable groups.”

She commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, describing him as Lagos State’s UHC Brand Ambassador. “His executive order making health insurance mandatory underscores his dedication to universal health. We are working to ensure that every Lagosian can access affordable, quality healthcare, irrespective of their financial situation.”

Dr. Zamba further announced that the agency would intensify its public awareness campaign, leveraging various platforms to encourage Lagosians to subscribe to Ilera Eko before enforcement begins next year. She said, “Health insurance is a safety net. It guarantees that you and your family can access care without financial hardship. This is our message during this walk and beyond.”

LASHMA’s Head of Planning, Research, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Mrs. Adetoro Tayo-Adetoro, reiterated the day’s significance, urging residents to embrace the Ilera Eko plans. “Health insurance is not just a necessity; it is a gift of security. I encourage Lagosians to invest in their health and that of their loved ones by subscribing to our affordable plans,” she stated.

The Head of Business Development at LASHMA, Mr. Rotimi Olatunji, described the awareness walk as a solidarity activity aligned with the global UHC movement. He said, “Ilera Eko is a legal framework designed to cater to all Lagosians, from corporate workers to artisans. It is a proactive measure to safeguard lives, ensuring that no one suffers financial ruin due to healthcare needs.”

Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Blood Transfusion Service, Dr. Bodunrin Osikomaiya, highlighted the integration of blood transfusion services into Ilera Eko. “Residents, including those with sickle cell disorder, can access blood units under the plan, ensuring equity in healthcare delivery. The government’s commitment to making healthcare accessible is truly commendable,” she noted.

Dr. Chidumga Ohazurike, Senior Health Specialist at USAID’s Local Health System Sustainability Project, lauded Lagos State’s progress in UHC implementation. “We have witnessed the state’s commitment to equity funds and policy enactments. USAID remains a proud partner in this transformative journey,” she said.

Mr. Biodun Omoloja, Head of the Global Fund Grant Management Unit, underscored the agency’s support for indigent populations. “Through partnerships and funding, we aim to place over 23,000 vulnerable individuals on health insurance, ensuring no one is left behind,” he shared.

King Ewa-Henshaw, Manager at the Solina Centre for International Development and Research, praised LASHMA’s efforts. “Universal health coverage is about equity and access. This walk demonstrates the government’s resolve to prioritize healthcare for all Lagosians,” he stated.

As the event concluded, participants expressed optimism about the future of health insurance in Lagos. Residents were urged to key into the Ilera Eko initiative to enjoy the benefits of a robust health insurance scheme. The 2024 UHC Day Awareness Walk was more than just an event—it was a call to action for Lagosians to embrace a future where quality healthcare is within reach for everyone.

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