Lagos Launches Innovative Health Insurance Packages for Diaspora and Tourists

Lagos State has introduced two new health insurance plans aimed at Nigerians living abroad and visitors to the state, expanding the Ilera-Eko diaspora offerings under the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA). The plans, named Waka-Well and Home Konnect, were unveiled at LASHMA’s headquarters in Alausa, Ikeja.

The Waka-Well plan is designed for short-term travellers, including festive-season visitors, tourists, and diasporans returning home. It covers common travel-related illnesses, emergency care, diagnostics, telemedicine, and local ambulance services. Premiums start at N45,000 for 90 days, offering affordable and accessible coverage for temporary stays.

Home Konnect, on the other hand, provides a sustainable health coverage option for families of Nigerians living abroad. It allows remote payment of premiums and ensures access to general and specialist consultations, maternal and newborn care, surgeries, chronic disease management, and annual wellness screening.

LASHMA highlighted that both packages were developed in partnership with private-sector organisations to ensure effective delivery locally and internationally. The initiative aims to fill existing gaps in diaspora healthcare, enabling Nigerians abroad to support family members in Lagos without financial strain or service disruptions.

Officials stressed that these plans align with Lagos State’s broader Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals, complementing existing reforms in maternal and surgical services. Residents can still access comprehensive healthcare services under the social health insurance framework, including antenatal care, delivery, and surgical procedures.

The launch also emphasized affordability and transparency. Authorities highlighted that a family of six could enjoy full coverage for just N180–N220 per day, making the plans cost-effective compared to private medical expenses. Media and community awareness were encouraged to ensure wide uptake.

Government representatives praised the innovation as a first of its kind in Africa’s health insurance ecosystem, noting its potential to improve healthcare access for returning diasporans, tourists, and local families alike. They described Lagos as a safe and welcoming destination with insurance models tailored to modern mobility.

LASHMA concluded the final media engagement of 2025 by reaffirming its commitment to expanding enrolment, strengthening health insurance culture, and delivering accessible, quality healthcare to all residents, while encouraging diasporans and visitors to take advantage of the new packages in the upcoming year.