Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given residents until December 31, 2026, to obtain health insurance, warning that enforcement of the state’s mandatory health insurance policy will begin on January 1, 2027.
The governor announced the deadline on Tuesday, October 27, during an event marking the commencement of enforcement of the state’s mandatory health insurance policy.
According to reports, the initiative is designed to increase access to healthcare services and reduce the financial burden residents face when seeking medical treatment.
The state government said the policy would encourage more residents to enrol in health insurance schemes, ensuring that healthcare costs do not prevent people from receiving necessary medical attention.
Under the arrangement, residents are expected to obtain appropriate health insurance coverage before the enforcement deadline.
The government has continued to promote health insurance as a means of improving access to medical services and strengthening the state’s healthcare system.
The policy is particularly important for residents who struggle to pay medical bills out of pocket, as health insurance can help reduce the financial pressure associated with hospital visits, treatment and other healthcare expenses.
The announcement also comes as Lagos continues to expand its healthcare programmes and encourage greater participation in insurance schemes.
Residents have been advised to take advantage of the remaining months before the deadline to secure coverage and understand the available health insurance options.
The enforcement scheduled for January 2027 is expected to mark a major step in the state’s efforts to make health insurance more widely adopted among residents.
