The Lagos State Government has introduced an ambitious 10-year primary healthcare financing plan aimed at transforming grassroots healthcare delivery, expanding infrastructure, and significantly increasing health insurance coverage.
The strategy, covering 2026 to 2036, was unveiled during a high-level retreat in Lekki and is designed to create a sustainable and well-funded healthcare system capable of serving Lagos’ rapidly growing population.
Speaking at the event, the state Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, said the initiative aligns with Lagos’ long-term development agenda and will drive major improvements in healthcare access and outcomes.
He revealed that the state currently has about 340 primary healthcare centres, many of which require upgrades, with a target to increase the number to 600 fully functional facilities equipped with adequate staff and resources.
Abayomi expressed concern over key health indicators, noting that maternal mortality remains high, with about 430 deaths per 100,000 live births, while child malnutrition affects up to 40 per cent of children in the state.
He also highlighted a severe shortage of medical personnel, stating that Lagos has roughly 7,000 doctors compared to an estimated need for 30,000. According to him, improving working conditions and attracting skilled professionals will be critical to closing the gap.
A major pillar of the plan is expanding health insurance coverage from the current 5–6 per cent to 90 per cent of residents, a move the commissioner described as essential to reducing out-of-pocket healthcare costs.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Ibrahim Mustafa, stressed the importance of efficient funding and transparency in managing healthcare resources.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Kemi Ogunyemi, emphasised that achieving universal health coverage would require strong collaboration among stakeholders, adding that the new plan provides a clear roadmap for long-term progress.
Other experts at the retreat called for better coordination, improved data systems, and stronger accountability to ensure successful implementation. Representatives from development partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, highlighted the need to align health financing with local government priorities.
Stakeholders agreed that while the plan is ambitious, its success will depend on sustained investment, political will, and effective execution across all levels of government.
