Lagos Govt Refutes Rhodes-Vivour’s Claims: Residents to Pay N15K Annually for Health Insurance

The Lagos State Government has dismissed claims by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the 2023 Labour Party governorship candidate, regarding the financial requirements of the Lagos Social Health Insurance Scheme.

Rhodes-Vivour had alleged that the scheme mandates a N15,000 monthly contribution from every Lagos resident, which he described as a burden, especially on minimum wage earners. According to him, this amount represents approximately 20 per cent of a minimum wage earner’s income, making it unsustainable.

While acknowledging the importance of universal health coverage, he criticized the flat-rate approach, arguing that it fails to consider the economic realities of most Lagosians. He suggested a proportional contribution of 5 per cent of monthly income instead, ensuring a fairer distribution of financial responsibility.

However, in response, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, clarified that the actual contribution required by the scheme is an annual premium of N15,000 per individual, not a monthly payment as claimed by Rhodes-Vivour.

Akosile further explained that the Executive Order issued by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu aligns with the NHIA Act of 2022, which mandates social health insurance for all Nigerians. He reassured residents that the scheme includes flexible payment options, allowing informal sector workers to make installment payments while still accessing healthcare services.

Additionally, Akosile highlighted the state government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable residents through an equity fund. According to him, Governor Sanwo-Olu has prioritized this fund, tripling its budget allocation from N1 billion to N3 billion in 2024 to cover those unable to afford the premium.

“The social health insurance plan of Lagos State has an annual premium of N15,000 only per individual and not monthly as stated by you,” Akosile stated. He also emphasized the state’s efforts to make healthcare more accessible, particularly for the underprivileged.

With the full enforcement of the mandatory health insurance scheme set to commence in the third quarter of this year, the Lagos State Government continues to push for widespread enrollment while ensuring financial provisions for those in need.