LASHMA Expands Universal Health Coverage with New Diaspora Health Insurance Plans

The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has significantly expanded its commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by unveiling two strategic new health insurance packages specifically tailored for Nigerians in the diaspora and visitors to the state. Introduced at the Agency’s 2025 fourth Quarter Media Parley, the plans dubbed Ilera-Eko Waka-Well and Ilera-Eko Home Konnect were lauded by stakeholders as a critical step toward strengthening health financing and deepening access for a broader population base.

Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, emphasized that the plans were a direct response to rising demand from diasporans and the state's goal of protecting all residents and visitors under its mandatory health insurance framework. This initiative, launched just days before UHC Day, aligns perfectly with the principle of ensuring that no one, regardless of their resident status or origin, is excluded from quality healthcare access while in Lagos.

​The Ilera-Eko Waka-Well plan is specifically designed for travelers, tourists, and diasporans returning for short stays, such as the festive "Detty December" period. For a cost of $45,000 for 90 days or $75,000 for multiple trips, it covers common traveler illnesses like malaria and typhoid, diagnostics, emergency care, and telemedicine services. This plan seeks to ensure visitors have immediate, affordable, and reliable health coverage during their stay, transforming the travel season into a "healthy December," according to the Agency’s Head of Business Development, Mr. Rotimi Olatunji.

​Conversely, the Ilera-Eko Home Konnect plan serves as a sustainable lifeline for the millions of Nigerians abroad who regularly remit funds for their families’ medical needs in Lagos. This package allows diasporans to seamlessly pay premiums for loved ones, covering general and specialist consultations, chronic disease management, surgeries, and maternal care. The plan provides structured and reliable coverage, effectively eliminating the financial burden and sustainability issues associated with inconsistent medical remittances.

The development of these packages involved key partnerships with private-sector players like Pinnacle Global Business Services and Nomad Doc Limited, ensuring effective marketing and service delivery both locally and internationally. The government reiterated that the overarching Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) remains the most affordable option, with a family of six able to access full coverage for a low daily cost, underscoring the necessity for all residents to enroll as mandated by an Executive Order from Governor Sanwo-Olu.