LASHMA LAUNCHES ILERA N’ TIWA COOPERATIVE SOCIETY FOR LAGOS RESIDENTS

… Empowering the Informal Sector and Bridging the Health Insurance Gap

In a groundbreaking move towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has unveiled the Ilera N’ Tiwa Cooperative and Multipurpose Society Ltd, a transformative initiative under the Ilera Eko scheme. This innovative programme targets Lagos residents in the informal sector, providing flexible health insurance premiums, financial inclusion, and economic benefits.

A Game-Changer in Health Insurance

The initiative comes as a response to the persistent challenges of low purchasing power, lapsed insurance policies, and restricted access to quality healthcare. During the launch event, LASHMA’s Board Chairman, Dr. Bayo Adedewe, described the cooperative as a “child of necessity,” aligning with both the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) Law and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act.

According to Dr. Adedewe, the cooperative integrates health insurance with additional social and economic benefits such as loans and discounted food supplies. This dual approach prioritises healthcare while enhancing members’ financial stability.

“Our slogan, ‘Health First,’ reflects our unwavering commitment to making healthcare accessible, affordable, and sustainable for every Lagosian,” Dr. Adedewe remarked, urging residents to embrace the programme.

Tackling the Financial Inclusion Gap

One of the cooperative’s most innovative aspects is its focus on financial inclusion. Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, LASHMA’s Permanent Secretary, highlighted the difficulties faced by the informal sector, where many individuals lack bank accounts, making traditional health insurance enrollment inaccessible.

To address this, the cooperative offers installment payment options through microfinance bank partnerships and introduces additional perks like wellness programmes and cheaper food packages.

“This initiative brings the informal sector into the fold, making healthcare affordable and accessible,” Dr. Zamba explained.

Voices of Support and Success Stories

The launch received endorsements from various stakeholders. Representatives of the Ministries of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, and Wealth Creation and Employment lauded the initiative’s potential for economic empowerment. Veteran Nollywood actor, Dr. Adebayo Salami, praised the cooperative for democratizing health insurance, sharing his personal experience as an Ilera Eko beneficiary.

Testimonials from beneficiaries underscored the programme’s impact:

Engr. Gbolahan Akinsanya, President of the Electronics Technicians Association of Nigeria, called Ilera Eko “perfect.”

Princess Aderonke Adedeji, President of the Restaurant and Bar Association Lagos Chapter, expressed excitement about the cooperative’s additional benefits, particularly the “Jara package.”

A Bold Step Toward Universal Health Coverage

The ceremony culminated in the unveiling of the Ilera N’ Tiwa Cooperative logo and the presentation of letters to members of its steering committee, signaling the official commencement of this landmark initiative.

As Lagos State cements its leadership in health financing innovation, the Ilera N’ Tiwa Cooperative shines as a beacon of hope for bridging the healthcare gap. For Lagosians, the message is simple: health is wealth, and Ilera N’ Tiwa is your pathway to a healthier, wealthier future.

Why This Matters

This initiative not only transforms healthcare accessibility but also creates a replicable model for other states to follow. With its blend of economic empowerment and health-focused strategies, Ilera N’ Tiwa sets a new standard for community-based health insurance systems.

Now, more than ever, it’s time for Lagos residents to seize the opportunity, ensuring their health and financial well-being are secure. After all, in Lagos, Ilera N’ Tiwa – health is indeed ours!