The Ogun State Government has commenced the enrolment of retired public servants into its newly approved free lifetime health insurance programme, a move aimed at improving healthcare access and reducing medical expenses for pensioners across the state.
The registration exercise, which began simultaneously at designated centres under the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme, is expected to provide eligible retirees with lifelong access to healthcare services at no personal cost.
Monitoring the exercise in Abeokuta, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, said the initiative reflects the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of senior citizens in recognition of their years of service to the state.
According to the commissioner, the large turnout recorded at registration centres demonstrates the enthusiasm among pensioners, many of whom welcomed the programme as a timely intervention.
Coker explained that the health insurance scheme is designed to eliminate out-of-pocket medical expenses for retirees, enabling them to receive quality healthcare without the financial strain often associated with old age.
She also assured beneficiaries that the programme is legally backed and structured to remain in operation beyond the tenure of the current administration.
The commissioner disclosed that the enrolment exercise would be expanded to all 20 local government areas to ensure that every eligible pensioner has the opportunity to register and benefit from the initiative.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the programme, describing it as a significant boost to their wellbeing.
One of the retirees, Olusegun Adewale, who is recovering from a stroke, said the initiative would provide much-needed relief for pensioners dealing with age-related health conditions and recurring medical costs.
Similarly, retired teacher Titilayo Odufuwa praised the state government for prioritising the welfare of senior citizens, noting that the scheme would guarantee retirees access to essential healthcare services when they need them most.
Several other pensioners also welcomed the initiative, describing it as a compassionate policy that would improve their quality of life by removing the financial barriers to accessing medical care.
