• Accelerates Efforts Towards Equitable Healthcare Access in Lagos
• Celebrates Unwavering Commitment to Excellence in Healthcare
By Aminat Umar
In celebration of the 2024 Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) hosted a grand Stakeholders’ Appreciation and Recognition Award Ceremony at the prestigious Providence Hotel, GRA, Ikeja. The event served as a platform to honor and celebrate the collaborative efforts of key players in advancing equitable and quality healthcare under the ILERA EKO Social Health Insurance Scheme.
Bringing together a diverse assembly of policymakers, healthcare providers, health management organizations, pharmaceutical service providers, media representatives, and other vital stakeholders, the ceremony highlighted the shared commitment to universal health coverage in Lagos State. LASHMA applauded their dedication to ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all residents, underscoring the significance of partnerships in driving the success of the ILERA EKO initiative.
The evening was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a call to action for sustained efforts toward achieving the vision of universal health coverage in Lagos
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), underscored the critical role of collaboration in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Reflecting on the event’s theme, “Health: It’s on the (House) Government,” she praised it as a testament to the government’s commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare for all.
Dr. Zamba spotlighted the achievements of the ILERA EKO scheme, which has enrolled over one million Lagosians, bridging significant gaps in healthcare access. She also highlighted the creation of the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA), a dedicated initiative aimed at supporting the most vulnerable populations.
“ILERA EKO is more than a healthcare program; it’s a promise of inclusivity and equity for every Lagosian,” she remarked, emphasizing the government’s leadership in driving transformative healthcare solutions.
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, credited the agency’s success to the steadfast commitment of its stakeholders. “Your innovation, dedication, and relentless advocacy are the pillars of our progress,” she said, celebrating the extraordinary individuals and organizations behind LASHMA’s achievements. She urged the awardees to continue as ambassadors of Universal Health Coverage (UHC), inspiring others to champion the cause of a healthier Lagos.
Adding to the commendations, Dr. Abimbola Mabogunje, Permanent Secretary of Health District VI, praised LASHMA for its efforts in advancing UHC. She highlighted the critical role of health insurance in reducing financial barriers to healthcare. “Affordable healthcare should never come at the cost of financial hardship. ILERA EKO exemplifies how health insurance can bridge this gap,” Dr. Mabogunje affirmed.
Both leaders emphasized the importance of collective action in driving equitable healthcare access and called for sustained efforts to build on these successes.
Dr. Abimbola Mabogunje, Permanent Secretary of Health District VI, lauded LASHMA’s proactive approach in reducing financial barriers to healthcare through its health insurance initiatives. “Primary healthcare is the cornerstone of universal health access, and LASHMA is setting a remarkable standard in Lagos,” she remarked. She also congratulated award recipients for their unwavering commitment to enhancing health outcomes across the state.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Chidumga Ohazurike, Senior Health Specialist with USAID-LHSS, commended LASHMA’s strides in advancing healthcare access. She highlighted the indispensable role of healthcare providers in driving this progress. “Your dedication shows that healthcare is not just about profit—it’s about transforming lives and improving health indices in Lagos,” Dr. Ohazurike stated, urging all stakeholders to sustain and deepen their collaboration for greater impact.
The event underscored the collective efforts driving a healthier Lagos, with calls for continued innovation and partnerships in achieving universal health coverage.
Dr. Chidumga Ohazurike, Senior Health Specialist with USAID-LHSS, commended LASHMA’s remarkable progress in advancing health insurance in Lagos. “LASHMA’s growth has been extraordinary, delivering impactful results that instill confidence in the future of healthcare in the state,” she noted.
Adding to the accolades, Mr. King Ewa-Henshaw, Manager at the Solina Centre for International Development and Research, highlighted LASHMA’s trailblazing digital innovations. “By championing equitable, digital-first healthcare delivery, LASHMA has set a new standard. We are proud to support their journey toward Universal Health Coverage,” he said.
The remarks reinforced LASHMA’s role as a leader in innovative and inclusive healthcare solutions, inspiring confidence in its mission to achieve equitable health access for all Lagosians.
The event was a celebration of excellence in the health sector, with several prestigious awards presented to outstanding contributors. St. Nicholas Hospitals was honored with the Clinical Excellence Award for its exceptional patient care, while Aruna Ogun Memorial Specialist Hospital received the Patient Safety Champion Award for fostering a culture of safety. Esso Hospital earned the Community Health and Wellness Award for its innovative health advocacy initiatives.
In the health management category, Phillips HMO Limited was named Best Performing Third-Party Administrator, and Nectarite Pharmacy, Alimosho, took home the Best Performing Community Pharmacy award. HCI Healthcare Limited was recognized with the Excellence in Compliance with Quarterly Returns award for its consistent adherence to regulatory standards.
The ceremony also acknowledged media excellence, with the Lagos State Government awarded Best Online Media Reporter for its promotion of ILERA EKO initiatives. Angela Onwuzoo was named Best Print Journalist for her impactful health awareness stories. Additionally, TV journalist Titilayo Abereowo and radio host Adeolu Okunade (Mr. Pilot) were recognized for their outstanding health advocacy through broadcast media.
These accolades celebrated the diverse efforts driving progress in healthcare across Lagos, from clinical excellence to media advocacy.
On the basis of this however, General Hospital Ikorodu and Crystal Specialist Hospital were commended for their exceptional data reporting accuracy, while Perfect Eyes Eye Clinic and Nene Dental were recognized for their outstanding contributions to optical and dental care, respectively.
In a special recognition, Dr. Osinachi Ubani of Oshodi Primary Health Center received the Leadership in Quality Improvement Award, and ten healthcare professionals, including Dorcas Nyanah of Ikorodu General Hospital, were honored as Healthcare Quality Champions for their dedication to improving care standards.
Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, in her address to the awardees, urged them to continue their exemplary work. “These achievements are not just milestones but a lasting legacy for future generations,” she remarked. The event concluded with a shared commitment to deepening collaborations and working toward a healthier, more equitable Lagos for all
To cap it all, the awards highlighted the significant strides made under the ILERA EKO scheme, celebrating the collective efforts that have propelled healthcare access in Lagos. They served not only as a recognition of progress but also as a powerful call to action for all stakeholders to continue their work in advancing Universal Health Coverage, ensuring a healthier future for all Lagosians.
For Advertisement, Event Coverage, Public Relations, Story/Article Publication, and other Media Services, kindly send an email to: thescopermedia58@gmail.com.
More importantly, to stay updated with the latest news, health updates, happenings, and interesting stories, click and visit www thescopermedia.com
