In a major milestone for public healthcare delivery in Ondo State, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has announced that more than 250,000 residents are now enrolled in the state’s health insurance scheme. This development marks a significant leap forward in the administration’s efforts to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare for all citizens, especially vulnerable groups.
Governor Aiyedatiwa made the announcement during a strategic health sector review meeting in Akure, the state capital. He emphasized that the Ondo State Health Insurance Scheme (ODSHIS) has been instrumental in expanding healthcare access across the state, particularly for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people living with chronic conditions.
According to the governor, the initiative is part of a broader reform agenda aimed at strengthening the state’s healthcare system. “Healthcare is a fundamental right, and our administration is committed to leaving no one behind. With over 250,000 people now covered, we are not just talking about access, we are delivering it,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa added that the success of the program is due to the government’s deliberate investments in primary and secondary healthcare facilities, as well as collaborations with development partners and community-based organizations. He also noted that several healthcare workers have been recruited and trained to support the scheme’s effective implementation.
The governor praised the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission for its dedication in driving the scheme, which has been operational in both urban and rural areas. Through the scheme, enrollees can access a wide range of health services without the burden of out-of-pocket payments.
Residents like Mrs. Felicia Ogunleye, a market trader in Owo, have described the initiative as life-changing. “Before, I used to worry about medical bills. But now, I go to the health center with my insurance card and get treatment without stress,” she said.
The governor assured that his administration will continue to scale up the program, aiming to reach even more citizens in the coming months. Plans are underway to expand service delivery points, integrate more private healthcare providers into the network, and intensify public awareness campaigns to encourage wider enrollment.
Healthcare analysts have commended the Ondo State government for setting a precedent in achieving universal health coverage at the sub-national level. Many have called for replication of the model in other Nigerian states as a way to improve health outcomes and reduce poverty caused by catastrophic medical spending.
With this achievement, Ondo State joins the league of states actively transforming healthcare delivery through structured health financing mechanisms. As enrollment figures continue to rise, the administration’s commitment to public health is likely to remain a key highlight of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership.
Source : Swifteradio.com
