By Juliet Umeh
Lagos has taken another bold step in health innovation. The Lagos State Health Management Agency, LASHMA, has launched Nigeria’s first Health Insurance Online Radio, ILERA EKO Spotlight, to deepen public enlightenment on health insurance and promote universal healthcare access for all residents.
The digital radio platform, unveiled during LASHMA’s Q3 2025 Media Parley in Alausa, Ikeja, will serve as a hub for credible health information, interactive discussions, and direct engagement between Lagosians and the agency.
A voice for health and inclusion
Speaking at the launch, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, said the new platform reflects Lagos State’s drive toward affordable and equitable healthcare.
“ILERA EKO Spotlight will be our voice to educate, inform, and connect directly with Lagosians across all communities,” she said.
“A healthy Lagos is a productive Lagos, and through this platform, we’re taking health information to where the people are — online and on-air.”
Zamba expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Information and Strategy for its continuous partnership, acknowledging both the former and current Permanent Secretaries for their support in expanding LASHMA’s media presence.
She also commended journalists for championing the agency’s initiatives, including the Executive Order on Mandatory Health Insurance signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2024.
Technology meets public health
Dr. Zamba admitted that LASHMA recently faced some temporary service disruptions due to an ICT system upgrade but assured residents that the improvements will enhance user experience and service delivery.
Since the Executive Order came into effect, the agency has scaled up multilingual campaigns and collaborated with veteran actor Adebayo “Oga Bello” Salami on a series of radio dramas and social media skits in Yoruba and Pidgin to reach the informal sector.
The newly launched ILERA EKO Spotlight will broadcast live from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. daily, featuring segments on health insurance, interviews, wellness tips, and interactive sessions.
Residents can tune in via the website ileraekospotlight.com, download the ILERA EKO Spotlight app on iOS, or follow @ileraekospotlight on Instagram and @ileraspotlight on X.
Expanding access through telemedicine
Zamba urged residents to take advantage of the ILERA EKO Telemedicine Service, emphasizing that virtual consultations can save time and reduce unnecessary hospital visits.
“Hospital visits are not always necessary. You can now speak to licensed doctors from your home or office through our telehealth platform,” she explained.
In his goodwill message, Mr. Olanrewaju Bajulaiye, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy (represented by Dr. Olajide Atansuyi), described the online radio as “a milestone in health communication.”
“At the heart of every progressive society is a healthy citizenry,” Bajulaiye said. “This platform bridges the gap between policy and people, ensuring that Lagosians stay informed, engaged, and empowered.”
Digital tools for a healthier Lagos
Highlighting the integration of insurance and digital health, Dr. Olugbenga Fadipe, Head of ILERA EKO Medical, spoke about the success of the Telehealth and Virtual Booth Initiative launched in 2024.
“The booths, toll-free lines, and mobile apps have expanded access to care, especially in underserved areas. They save time, decongest hospitals, and even provide mental health counseling at the touch of a button,” he said.
LASHMA’s Technical Assistant, Dr. Nifesimi Akinnagbe, also announced that full enforcement of the health insurance mandate will begin in 2026. She noted progress in sensitization, enrollment for vulnerable groups, and compliance among MDAs.
The agency has also expanded its Equity Fund and launched LASHMA AID to ensure emergency support for uninsured patients.
Real stories, real impact
Adding a personal touch, Mr. Muyibi Adewale Abioun, HR Manager at OWL Transportation and Logistics, shared how his organization registered over 100 staff members under the ILERA EKO scheme.
“My team members keep thanking me for introducing ILERA EKO. It’s one of the best decisions we ever made,” he said with satisfaction.
The event concluded with a symbolic mini-launch and live demonstration of ILERA EKO Spotlight, marking another milestone in Lagos State’s journey toward universal health coverage — powered by innovation, inclusion, and information.
