Lagos launches rural health scheme, offering free medical coverage to Agboyi-Ketu residents

By Adeola Ogunrinde –

The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) on Tuesday formally launched the Rural Health Scheme under the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA) Rural Health Insurance Initiative at Agboyi Ori Omi Community in Agboyi-Ketu LCDA. The initiative, implemented pursuant to an executive order by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, seeks to ensure all Lagos residents, irrespective of location or social status, are covered under the state’s mandatory health insurance policy.

At the flag-off ceremony, LASHMA Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, described the initiative as a “historic milestone” in Lagos State’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). She commended the Governor for approving the Equity Fund, which provides sustainable financing for health programmes targeting vulnerable populations.

Dr. Zamba explained that the scheme addresses healthcare access gaps in communities without functional Primary Health Centres (PHCs). The pilot phase will be implemented in five communities across the three senatorial districts of Lagos: Agboyi Ori-Omi (Agboyi-Ketu LCDA), Iba Oloja (Ibeju-Lekki LGA), Lafiaji and Okun Ajah (Eti-Osa LGA), and Boglo (Badagry).

Equipped for primary healthcare, mobile clinics will visit each community three times weekly to provide consultations, treatment for common illnesses, chronic disease management, laboratory services, and essential medications. Patients requiring advanced care will be referred to Mascara PHC in Ketu or Gbagada General Hospital at no cost, facilitated through arrangements with Lagos Health District II and local transport operators.

Governor Sanwo-Olu has approved free health insurance coverage for 5,000 residents of Agboyi Ori-Omi under the EKOSHA Rural Health Scheme. Registration for beneficiaries commenced immediately and will continue until Friday, November 14. Dr. Zamba encouraged community members to take full advantage of the programme, emphasizing that healthcare services are now being brought directly to their doorsteps.

In an interview, Dr. Zamba reiterated that the initiative promotes inclusivity, noting that communities without functional health facilities still deserve quality care. She confirmed that the Rural Health Scheme is fully funded through the Equity Fund, representing one percent of the state’s consolidated revenue.

Dr. Dayo Lajide, Permanent Secretary of Lagos State Health District II, recalled that a recent medical outreach in Agboyi-Ketu highlighted significant gaps in healthcare access. He commended LASHMA for its efficient implementation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to leaving no community behind.

The Vice Chairman of Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Hon. Yomi Ganiu, and His Royal Majesty, Oba Monsuru Abimbola Oladega, the Olu of Agboyi Kingdom, both praised the initiative. They assured residents of their support in mobilizing community participation and urged them to register for the scheme, describing it as a “new dawn” and a “blessing” for the community.