The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has reinforced its commitment to inclusive and affordable healthcare through expanded use of telemedicine and digital media in its latest public awareness campaign.
Speaking at the official launch of ILERA EKO Spotlight, Nigeria’s first health insurance online radio, LASHMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, said the state was intensifying efforts to educate residents on the benefits of health insurance and to promote equitable access to care.
The event, held during LASHMA’s 2025 Quarter 3 Media Parley at the Agency’s headquarters in Alausa-Ikeja, marked a significant step in leveraging technology to enhance communication and engagement on health issues.
Dr. Zamba explained that the ILERA EKO Spotlight radio station would serve as a dynamic platform for health education, feedback, and public enlightenment, broadcasting daily from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. “This platform will serve as our voice to educate, inform, and connect directly with Lagosians across all communities,” she said.
She expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Information and Strategy for its continued partnership, describing the collaboration as pivotal to LASHMA’s public engagement success. Zamba acknowledged the contributions of former Permanent Secretary Mr. Olumide Sogunle and commended his successor, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, for sustaining the momentum.
The LASHMA boss also lauded the media for its role in amplifying awareness of the Executive Order signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2024, which made social health insurance mandatory for all residents. “Your role in promoting health-seeking behaviour has been invaluable,” she said, urging journalists to continue sensitizing Lagosians about the ILERA EKO Scheme.
Addressing recent service disruptions, Dr. Zamba apologised for temporary technical challenges caused by an ongoing ICT upgrade. “We appeal for patience as we complete the upgrade to enhance user experience and service quality,” she assured.
She noted that LASHMA has expanded outreach efforts through multilingual campaigns, including collaborations with veteran actor Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello) to produce radio dramas and skits in Yoruba and Pidgin aimed at the informal sector.
Dr. Zamba further encouraged residents to take advantage of the ILERA EKO Telemedicine service, which allows virtual consultations with licensed doctors. “Hospital visits are not always necessary. You can access medical care from your home or workplace through our Telehealth platform,” she said.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Strategy, represented by Dr. Olajide Atansuyi, Director of Social Media, described ILERA EKO Spotlight as a milestone in health communication.
“At the heart of every progressive society is a healthy citizenry. The Spotlight Radio Programme will enlighten, engage, and empower Lagosians with practical health information that can transform lives,” Bajulaiye said, pledging continued support to strengthen the initiative.
Ms. Adeyinka Gbemibade, LASHMA’s Director of Public Affairs, highlighted that the radio station would provide interactive programmes covering health insurance updates, expert interviews, and features for youth, women, men, and the elderly.
Also speaking, Dr. Olugbenga Fadipe, Head of ILERA EKO Medical, outlined the success of the ILERA EKO Telehealth and Virtual Booth Initiative launched by Governor Sanwo-Olu in 2024. He said the integration of insurance enrollment with telehealth services has significantly improved access to care, especially among informal sector workers.
Dr. Nifesimi Akinnagbe, LASHMA’s Technical Assistant, announced that full enforcement of the Executive Order on compulsory health insurance will begin in 2026. She noted that progress has been made in sensitization, enrollment of vulnerable groups, and compliance among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
“LASHMA’s goal is to ensure that every Lagos resident, regardless of social or economic status, has access to health insurance,” she affirmed.
