By Kemi Olatunde

Ondo State Governor, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has extended financial assistance to indigent residents in the state to improve their health.

In line with this initiative, 46 beneficiaries received cheques of various amounts during a medical assistance programme held in Akure on Tuesday.

Represented by the Health Commissioner, Dr Banji Awolowo Ajaka, the governor explained that cheques with varying amounts have been distributed to vulnerable individuals across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state to cover their medical bills and other health needs.

He noted that approximately N34 million has been allocated to support the beneficiaries.

Congratulating them, he remarked, “The medical assistance programme is for residents, especially the vulnerable and indigent individuals who are suffering from various ailments but are financially incapacitated.”

He urged the recipients to use the funds judiciously to improve their health and well-being.

The governor emphasised the importance of enrolling in the government’s health insurance scheme to access healthcare without financial strain.

“The only way to be health-wise and naira-smart is through health insurance, which is available in Ondo State. The Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) serves public servants, while ORANGHIS for the informal sector enables residents to cater to their health needs. Through this scheme, one can access treatments for conditions ranging from malaria to caesarean sections, among others,” he said.

Earlier, Dr Stephen Fagbemi, representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Director of Public Health, expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for his continued support of the health sector and for prioritising residents’ well-being through the programme.

He noted that this gesture, which began some time ago, would enable beneficiaries to pursue their aspirations.

Director of Hospital Services, Dr Ayodele Adelusi, also appreciated the governor for prioritising citizens’ well-being, explaining that each year, the state government assists those in need of medical aid. He added that funds were allocated based on the severity of beneficiaries’ ailments.

In their responses, some beneficiaries, including Mr Alejo and Mrs Momoh, commended the governor for his gesture and prayed for his continued good health as well as that of all stakeholders in the health sector.

In total, 46 people benefitted from the programme.