Oyo State Enrolls 10,000 Vulnerable Pupils in Free Health Insurance Scheme

The Oyo State Government has officially enrolled 10,000 vulnerable pupils in its free health insurance scheme, a landmark initiative aimed at providing improved healthcare services for children across selected local government areas.

Speaking at the enrollment flag-off ceremony held at Idi Ape, Ibadan, Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his Deputy, Chief Bayo Lawal, described the initiative as historic for the state. He emphasized that the program will ensure vulnerable pupils gain unhindered access to quality healthcare without financial burden, thereby promoting their overall well-being and academic performance.

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative, Ms. Celine Lafourierne, commended the Oyo State Government for prioritizing child healthcare. She reiterated that health insurance is a fundamental right of every child and praised the administration for its proactive approach in ensuring healthcare accessibility for vulnerable children.

Also speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA), Dr. Sola Akande, assured beneficiaries of prompt and efficient healthcare services at accredited hospitals. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring that all enrolled pupils receive quality medical care whenever needed.

Teachers and pupils from selected schools expressed appreciation to the Makinde-led administration, noting that the initiative will significantly reduce health-related absenteeism among vulnerable children and improve their overall well-being.

The program underscores the Oyo State Government’s commitment to universal healthcare coverage, particularly for underprivileged children, and aligns with its broader efforts to strengthen the state’s health and education sectors.