Photo: Kritzolina, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0State health insurance schemes in Nigeria
State health insurance schemes in Nigeria (LASHMA, FHIS, KSCHMA…)
Short answerChecked 31 October 2026
Under section 13 of the NHIA Act 2022, every state and the FCT may set up a health insurance or contributory scheme for all its residents, at least at the Basic Minimum Package of the National Health Act, and must cover vulnerable persons without premiums, through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund and other sources. NHIA lists the state agencies: for example the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), the FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) and Kano's KSCHMA. Joining a state scheme does not stop you buying private cover (section 14(3)).
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Get the free PDFWhat the Act asks of states
- A state scheme covers all residents, at least at the Basic Minimum Package of the National Health Act (section 13(1)–(2)).
- HMOs, facilities and third-party administrators working in state schemes must be registered by NHIA (section 13(5)).
- States cover vulnerable persons without premiums (section 13(7)); a person who buys private health insurance cannot receive that free cover (section 14(4)).
Text: NHIA Act 2022.
Some state agencies on NHIA's list
| State | Agency | Address on NHIA's list |
|---|---|---|
| Lagos | LASHMA (Lagos State Health Management Agency) | 17 Kafi Street, Oregun, Alausa, Ikeja |
| FCT | FCT Health Insurance Scheme (FHIS) | Capital Street, Block A, Area 11, Garki, Abuja |
| Kano | Kano State Contributory Healthcare Management Agency (KSCHMA) | 27a Sokoto Road, Kano |
| Delta | Delta State Contributory Health Commission (DSCHC) | State Secretariat Complex, Asaba |
| Anambra | Anambra State Health Insurance Agency (ASHIA) | Road 1, Abuja Estate, opposite Government House |
The full list, with every state's agency, director and phone number: NHIA, State Social Health Insurance Agencies.
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Frequently asked questions
What is LASHMA?
The Lagos State Health Management Agency, which runs the Lagos State health insurance scheme. NHIA lists it at 17 Kafi Street, Oregun, Alausa, Ikeja.
Do I have to join my state's health insurance scheme?
The NHIA Act requires every resident to obtain health insurance and allows private cover provided you take part in a state-mandated scheme (section 14(3)). Each state sets its own rules: ask your state agency.