Olufemi Adeyemi 

In a collaborative effort, Sterling Bank Limited and the Lagos State Government, represented by the Lagos State Health Management Agency, have introduced the Ilera Eko Standard Jaara Health Insurance scheme.

The bank announced on Wednesday that the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, launched the initiative.

During the launch event held on Tuesday, Sanwo-Olu stated that, “Today signifies a major leap in our efforts to make healthcare both accessible and affordable. The Ilera Eko booths symbolise our dedication to bringing vital services closer to our people. This partnership with Sterling Bank showcases the power of public-private collaborations in driving transformative community changes. We envision a future where no Lagosian is deprived of basic healthcare.”

The Ilera Eko Standard Jaara Health Insurance scheme are multi-functional facilities that offer basic medical care, telemedicine services, and enrollment in the LASHMA insurance program. Additionally, they serve as agency banks, allowing residents to conduct daily financial transactions and access essential banking services.

The CEO of Sterling Bank, Abubakar Suleiman, represented by the bank’s Head of Government Fulfilment, Adewale Adebowale, reiterated the bank’s unwavering commitment to its HEART strategy. This strategy has driven substantial investments in healthcare, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and transportation sectors across various states nationwide.

Suleiman said, “Our HEART strategy is central to our mission, focusing on health, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and transportation. The Ilera Eko booths embody our commitment to uplifting communities by integrating health and financial services. By making healthcare more accessible and affordable, we aim to enhance the quality of life for all Lagosians.”

The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, Dr. Emmanuela Zamba, announced that the first five booths of the new housing initiative are now operational in various locations across Lagos. These booths are situated in Yaba, Epe, Ketu, and Ikorodu.

Zamba noted that preparations are in the final stages to launch 300 booths statewide for expansion.

The Chairman of the Governing Council of LASHMA, Mr. Adebayo Adedewe, announced the proposal for 300 Virtual booths across the state to enhance healthcare accessibility for residents. This initiative aims to provide more individuals with convenient and affordable healthcare services.

Adedewe added that the Ilera Eko Virtual Booth Initiative, introduced by the Governor, will be accessible at five strategic locations across Lagos State. These locations include Yaba, Ketu Bus Stop in Ketu, Adamo Market in Ikorodu, Sabo Market in Ikorodu, and Ayetoro Market in Epe.

He said: “To enjoy the Standard Jaara Health Insurance Plan, an individual will pay a premium of N15, 000 per annum. Payment of premium on our family plan has been stratified in line with the feedback received from our Enrollees. While a family of four consisting of the father, mother and two children below 23 years, will pay N55,000 per annum, a family of six, consisting of the father, mother and four children also below 23 years, will pay N80,000 per annum. Additional dependents below 23 years old will pay N10, 000 per annum.”