By Ayomide Otitoju
Lagos State has taken a major step toward expanding healthcare access for underserved communities with the launch of the Rural Health Scheme under the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA) Rural Health Insurance Initiative. The programme was flagged off on Tuesday at Agboyi Ori-Omi Community in Agboyi-Ketu Local Council Development Area (LCDA) by the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA).
The initiative, which follows an Executive Order by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, aims to ensure that every Lagos resident, regardless of location or social status, is covered under the state’s mandatory health insurance policy. As part of the scheme, LASHMA will deploy mobile clinics and ambulances to rural communities three times weekly. In addition, partnerships with local tricycle operators will provide free emergency transport for patients requiring urgent care.
Speaking at the flag-off, LASHMA Permanent Secretary Dr. Emmanuella Zamba described the programme as a “historic milestone” in Lagos State’s pursuit of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). She commended the Governor’s commitment to social protection, noting that the approval of the Equity Fund had provided financial sustainability for health programmes targeting vulnerable populations.
Dr. Zamba explained that the Rural Health Scheme is designed to bridge healthcare access gaps in hard-to-reach areas lacking functional Primary Health Centres (PHCs). The pilot phase will cover five communities across the state’s three senatorial districts: Agboyi Ori-Omi in Agboyi-Ketu LCDA and Iba Oloja in Ibeju-Lekki LGA (Lagos East); Lafiaji and Okun Ajah in Eti-Osa LGA (Lagos Central); and Boglo in Badagry (Lagos West).
Mobile clinics equipped for basic primary healthcare will visit each community three times a week to provide consultations, treatment for common illnesses, chronic disease management, laboratory investigations, and essential medications. Patients requiring specialized care will be referred to Mascara PHC in Ketu or Gbagada General Hospital at no cost, under arrangements coordinated by LASHMA and local transporters.
Dr. Zamba also announced that Governor Sanwo-Olu had approved free health insurance for 5,000 residents of Agboyi Ori-Omi. Registration for beneficiaries began immediately and will continue until Friday, November 14. “We are bringing healthcare directly to your doorsteps,” she said, urging residents to embrace the programme.
Lagos State Health District II Permanent Secretary Dr. Dayo Lajide praised the initiative, recalling a recent medical outreach in Agboyi-Ketu that revealed significant healthcare gaps. He commended the Governor’s prompt action and LASHMA’s efficient execution.
Representing Agboyi-Ketu LCDA, Vice Chairman Hon. Yomi Ganiu thanked the state government for selecting Agboyi as the flag-off point and pledged to encourage residents to register. “This initiative demonstrates true governance with a human face,” he said.
Oba (Engr.) Monsuru Abimbola Oladega, the Olu of Agboyi Kingdom, described the programme as a “new dawn” for the community, praising both the Governor and LASHMA for their efforts. Similarly, Oba Isiaka Balogun Oyero, the Oba of Ketu Kingdom, hailed the initiative as a reflection of responsive governance, noting the government acted swiftly following a medical outreach six weeks ago.
Operational details were provided by Dr. Olugbenga Fadipe, Head of ILERA EKO Medical Services at LASHMA. He said the mobile clinics would treat common ailments, provide routine immunizations, and offer preventive care, while referrals for advanced treatment would be coordinated through local tricycle operators at no cost to patients.
The launch featured cultural displays and on-the-spot registration for free healthcare coverage, with the mobile clinic beginning operations immediately after the ceremony.
The EKOSHA Rural Health Scheme represents a significant stride toward Lagos State’s goal of universal health coverage, ensuring that even remote and riverine communities have access to quality healthcare. As the programme expands, it is expected to transform healthcare access for thousands of residents and reinforce Lagos’ reputation as a model of inclusive governance.
