The Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has intensified its drive to extend affordable health insurance to informal sector workers through the Ilera N’Tiwa Cooperative and Multipurpose Society Limited (ITCMS).
The initiative aims to deepen financial inclusion and expand access to quality healthcare for Lagos residents.
Speaking at the inaugural general meeting of the cooperative held on Wednesday at the Debt Management Office Conference Hall, LASHMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, said the cooperative was established in partnership with the Lagos State Council of Tradesmen and Artisans (LASCOTA) to integrate informal workers into the state’s Social Health Insurance Scheme – Ilera Eko.
Dr. Zamba explained that ITCMS allows artisans and other informal workers to pay for health insurance in flexible installments while the cooperative remits full premiums upfront to LASHMA.
This model, she noted, guarantees uninterrupted access to healthcare services for enrollees and their families.
Beyond health insurance, the cooperative offers several welfare benefits, including low-interest loans, discounted food items through agricultural partnerships, referral bonuses, and raffle draws.
‘These benefits are designed to improve members’ welfare and promote social inclusion,’ Dr. Zamba said.
Since its official launch in December 2024, the cooperative has partnered with a microfinance bank and recorded steady membership growth.
Dr. Zamba emphasized that the initiative supports Lagos State’s goal of achieving universal health coverage by 2030 through community-driven solutions.
Reflecting on progress since 2020, she noted that awareness of health insurance had grown significantly. ‘Today, more people understand the importance of paying ahead for healthcare, and participation has grown remarkably,’ she said.
According to her, the Governor’s Executive Order making health insurance mandatory has strengthened LASHMA’s mandate.
Enforcement is expected to begin in 2026 after sustained sensitization campaigns. ‘Our focus now is on building awareness and preparing residents for full implementation,’ she added.
Dr. Zamba also highlighted new LASHMA initiatives, including an emergency services program, an online radio station, and a digital verification platform designed to make access to health plans easier and more transparent.
‘When you subscribe to health insurance, you’re not just buying a policy – you’re protecting your family’s future,’ she stressed.
In his welcome address, Engr. Ajayi Lawrence, President of ITCMS and the Lagos Association of Artisans, described the event as a milestone for economic empowerment and collective progress.
‘The name Ilera N’Tiwa, meaning ‘Our Well-being,’ reflects our vision of unity and prosperity. This cooperative is not just a financial platform, it’s a movement to transform lives through savings, access to credit, and quality healthcare,’ he said.
He outlined four key objectives: promoting a savings culture, providing financial support, investing in joint ventures for sustainable growth, and upholding transparency. The cooperative currently connects over 75 artisan groups across seven local government areas, offering health education and enrollment support for Ilera Eko.
‘With LASHMA’s support, our members can now receive medical treatment and drugs without paying out of pocket. It’s a life-changing opportunity we want every artisan to embrace,’ he added.
Also speaking, Mr. Rotimi Olatunji, LASHMA’s Head of Business Development, said ITCMS represents a practical model for health-related financial inclusion. ‘Members can conveniently pay for their insurance while accessing other welfare programs such as food banks, cooperative loans, and referral bonuses,’ he said.
He added that the cooperative provides access to over 600 accredited healthcare providers across Lagos, including hospitals, pharmacies, and diagnostic centers. A partner microfinance bank supports premium financing to allow flexible installment payments.
Mr. Femi Niyi, Managing Director of Rigo Microfinance Bank, reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to bridging healthcare financing gaps.
‘Our partnership with ITCMS and LASHMA ensures that no one is denied medical care due to lack of funds,’ he said.
Niyi described health insurance as a critical safety net. ‘Insurance isn’t about expecting sickness – it’s about being prepared and protecting your family,’ he emphasized, commending the Lagos State Government for promoting inclusive healthcare.
‘Your health is your greatest wealth,’ he concluded. ‘Take advantage of this initiative, secure your health, and secure your future.’