The Ondo State Government has made enrollment in the State Contributory Health Scheme mandatory for all residents as part of its commitment to ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for every citizen.
Speaking during the weekend’s presentation of financial assistance totaling ₦38 million to 39 indigent residents, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Banji Ajaka, said the initiative aligns with the administration’s goal of reducing the financial burden of healthcare on families.
“The contributory health insurance scheme in Ondo State is now compulsory for everyone,” Ajaka announced. “We started with workers in the state and local governments, and they are already benefiting. You don’t need cash in hand to access treatment.
For surgeries, patients pay just 40%, while the government covers the remaining 60 percent”, he added.
Ajaka explained that the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission (ODCHC) was established to implement and manage the scheme, which provides a structured financing model for healthcare services across the state.
He also highlighted the success of the Abiyamo Maternal and Child Health Insurance Scheme (AMCHIS), a flagship programme providing free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five.
“Whether it’s a normal delivery or a caesarean section, registered mothers pay nothing. The government takes full responsibility,” he said.
On the disbursement of funds, the Commissioner noted that the ₦38 million support approved by the Governor was aimed at assisting residents with severe medical conditions, including those requiring costly procedures such as kidney transplants.
“A total of 54 people applied, but after careful screening by a selection board, 39 were approved. This shows that the process is transparent and targeted at those most in need”, Ajaka added.
He urged beneficiaries to utilize the funds strictly for their intended medical purposes, emphasizing that the state government remains committed to strengthening the health sector and protecting residents from catastrophic health expenditures.
“Health is wealth. Take care of your health; it is the most important investment you can make”, he advised.
The Commissioner reaffirmed that the state’s health reforms, including the contributory insurance scheme, revitalisation of primary healthcare centres, and recruitment of medical personnel, are central to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s broader agenda of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Ondo State.
Officials of the Ondo State Contributory Health Commission, community leaders, and representatives of beneficiary families attended the event, which took place at the state capital, Akure.
About the Author
