Lagos State has once again proven its leadership in healthcare innovation by winning the “State Social Health Insurance of the Year Award 2025″ presented by the Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Award (NHEA).
EpeInsights learnt that this marks the **second time** the state is taking home this highly coveted recognition.
Themed “Collaborating for Impact: Strengthening Health Systems through the SWAP Approach”, this year’s award celebrates the outstanding work of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) in delivering quality and inclusive health insurance services to residents across the state.
At the award ceremony held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, accepted the honor with heartfelt appreciation.
She expressed gratitude to the NHEA and especially to the residents of Lagos both at home and abroad who voted overwhelmingly in favor of the agency.
“This award is a testament to the trust Lagosians have in us to deliver affordable, accessible, and equitable healthcare, regardless of social or economic status,” she said.
Dr. Zamba dedicated the award to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the Lagos State House of Assembly, Executive Chairmen of LGAs/LCDAs, and numerous partners, healthcare providers and enrollees who have supported the agency’s mission.
She praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support, which she said has made the vision of a healthier Lagos a reality.
Dr. Zamba emphasized that this recognition is not the finish line but a new beginning. LASHMA, she noted, will remain focused on expanding access and bringing healthcare even closer to the people.
She also lauded existing healthcare providers for their collaboration and called on those not yet on the ILERA EKO scheme to join in driving the state toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
In a passionate appeal, Dr. Zamba urged all Lagosians who are yet to enroll in the ILERA EKO Social Health Insurance Plan to do so, especially as Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Executive Order (signed on July 16, 2024) has made enrollment mandatory for all residents.
Residents can sign up by visiting the LASHMA Headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja, or any divisional or sub-divisional office across the state. Online self-registration is also available at [www.lashma.com](http://www.lashma.com) or via the USSD code *6700*006#.
Dr. Zamba reminded residents not to make payments in cash or into any agent’s personal account. All payments should go through **official LASHMA payment channels** to ensure safety and accountability.
