Ondo State Governor, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to providing affordable healthcare for all residents with the launch of the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for the informal sector. The scheme, which was inaugurated at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure on Monday, aims to improve healthcare access for artisans, market women, farmers, and private sector workers.
Speaking at the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of collective action to enhance healthcare accessibility. “Health is a fundamental human right and a critical indicator of human development,” he stated, noting that the new scheme would help break down financial barriers to healthcare for the people of Ondo State.
The Governor also highlighted the success of ORANGHIS among public servants since its inception in 2022, attributing its foundation to the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. He praised the leadership of labor unions for their support and encouraged more people to enroll in the program. “I urge all political leaders, philanthropists, and individuals to enroll themselves and their communities in this life-changing program,” Aiyedatiwa said.
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The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka, commended the scheme’s impact on public servants, stating, “ORANGHIS has brought great relief to enrollees and their dependents, encouraging a healthier and more productive public service.”
Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin, Director-General of the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission (ODCHC), described health insurance as a pragmatic solution to Nigeria’s declining health indices. He projected that Ondo would rank among the top five states in health insurance coverage by 2027.
International partners, including the World Health Organization and the International Labour Organization, also expressed their commitment to supporting the state’s efforts in expanding healthcare coverage.
Governor Aiyedatiwa concluded by assuring residents of the state’s ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure, such as the construction of 250-bed hospitals and recruitment of health workers. “Together, we can improve our health indices and ensure qualitative healthcare delivery across Ondo State,” he said.