The Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation, AAAF, in partnership with Ogun North East Local Government, has launched a free health insurance scheme for rural communities in Ijebu, Ogun State, enrolling 60 beneficiaries in the first phase of the initiative.
The scheme, targeted at elderly and vulnerable residents, covered indigents drawn from ten rural communities, including Isade, Ajowa, Idomila, Iken, Igbogila, Rasonwa, Ilefon, Ileshe, Sanyindo and Idomowo villages.
The programme was held at the 400-seater community hall built by the Chairman of SIFAX Group and AAAF, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi.
Speaking at the event, the Foundation’s Executive Coordinator, Mrs. Foluke Ademokun, who represented Dr. Afolabi, said the initiative was inspired by the underutilisation of a health facility earlier donated by the Foundation to the communities due to residents’ inability to afford medical bills.
She explained that the Foundation subsequently partnered with the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency (OGSHIA) to provide free health insurance coverage for vulnerable residents.
Ademokun noted that the scheme is aimed at removing financial barriers to healthcare and encouraging beneficiaries to seek proper medical attention without fear of cost.
The Chairman of Ogun North East Local Government, Hon. Foluso Badejo, alongside the Local Government Health Supervisor, Hon. Oside Olalekan, commended Dr. Afolabi for his sustained support to the local government area, citing his contributions to infrastructure, education, healthcare and community development.
Traditional rulers from the benefiting communities, led by the village head of Isade, Chief M. S. Odunuga, described the initiative as timely and impactful, applauding the Foundation’s commitment to community welfare.
Also speaking, Otunba Major General Odunsin (Rtd), who oversees AAAF’s community development projects in the area, praised the collaboration between the Foundation, government agencies and community leaders, noting the transparent beneficiary selection process and the efficient issuance of health insurance cards by OGSHIA.
The free health insurance scheme is expected to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and improve access to medical services in the rural communities, with additional phases of the initiative under consideration.
