Ilera Eko was the focus as the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) commenced a two-day capacity-building programme for journalists aimed at strengthening their understanding and reporting of the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS) and the Mandatory Social Health Insurance Programme.
The training, holding from August 18 to 19, 2026, at the LASHMA Conference Room, is designed to build journalists’ capacity on the Lagos State Health Scheme Law, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act and the mandatory nature of Ilera Eko, while promoting accurate, ethical and solution-focused reporting on social health insurance, access to healthcare and accountability.
The welcome address was delivered by Mr. Kayode Sutton, who represented the Coordinating Director, Ministry of Information and Strategy.
The keynote address by the Permanent Secretary of LASHMA, Dr. Emmanuella Zamba, was delivered by Mr. Olatunji Rotimi, who represented the Permanent Secretary at the training.
The programme featured sessions on the Social Health Insurance Legal Framework and its implications for the general public, LASHMA’s readiness on the Executive Order, Ilera Eko health insurance plans and benefit packages, as well as Ilera Eko registration and enrolment.
The overview of Ilera Eko benefit packages was presented by Mrs. Bukola Badejo, who provided participants with insights into the healthcare services and benefits available under the scheme.
Participants also engaged in an interactive question-and-answer session with LASHMA officials, providing an opportunity for journalists to seek clarification on issues surrounding Ilera Eko enrolment, benefits, service delivery, grievance mechanisms, and the rights and responsibilities of enrollees.
The training brought together journalists and media practitioners from various media organisations, including EkoSpotlightNEWS, Eko FM, Radio Lagos, Traffic Radio, PM News, and other media outlets across Lagos State.
The capacity-building programme is expected to equip journalists with the knowledge required to provide accurate, ethical and solution-focused reporting on Ilera Eko, health insurance and healthcare access across Lagos State.