*60 Indigents Benefit from the Scheme’s First Phase
The Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation (AAAF) in partnership with Ogun North East Local Government Area has enrolled 60 residents from no fewer than ten rural communities.
The initiative which is the first phase of its free health insurance scheme is aimed at improving access to quality healthcare for those it considered as elderly and vulnerable in the affected communities.
The programme was held at the 400 seaters community hall built by the Chairman of Sifax Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi recently.
Beneficiaries of the programme were drawn from the local government area. These include Isade, Ajowa, Idomila, Iken, Igbogila, Rasonwa, Ilefon, Ileshe, Sanyindo and Idomowo villages.
Speaking at the event, AAAF Executive Coordinator, Mrs. Foluke Ademokun who represented Afolabi explained the motivation behind the initiative while presenting a cheque to representatives of the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency (OGSHIA).
She revealed that Afolabi observed that a health facility he previously donated to the adjoining Ijebu communities in Isade was being underutilized because many residents could not afford medical bills.
According to her, this discovery prompted AAAF to collaborate with OGSHIA to provide free health insurance coverage for elderly and vulnerable residents, allowing them to access healthcare services without financial burden.
“This initiative is another opportunity for Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, Sifax Group and the Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation to extend our social intervention efforts to rural communities, following the donation of a health centre some time ago. We are confident that this health insurance scheme will remove financial barriers and encourage beneficiaries to seek proper medical care,” she said.
The Chairman of Ogun North East Local Government, Hon Foluso Badejo, accompanied by the Local Government’s Health Supervisor, Hon Oside Olalekan, expressed deep appreciation for Afolabi’s continued support for the local government area.
He highlighted the philanthropist’s contributions across the region, including the donation of markets, schools, football fields, ICT centres and medical facilities, noting that these interventions have complemented government efforts to meet the needs of the people.
The village head of Isade, Chief M S Odunuga who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers, commended Afolabi for his consistent commitment to the well-being of the communities, describing the health insurance scheme as timely and impactful.
Also speaking, Major General Odunsin (retired) who oversees AAAF community development projects in the locality, praised the collaboration among community leaders, government agencies and AAAF.
He commended the transparent selection process of the beneficiaries across the villages and the efficient issuance of health insurance cards by OGSHIA officials, assuring beneficiaries that the initiative is being managed with care and integrity.
The free health insurance scheme is expected to significantly reduce out of pocket healthcare expenses for beneficiaries and improve the utilisation of healthcare facilities within the communities. Further phases of the initiative are being considered.
Maritime Bits checks revealed that AAAF is the philanthropic arm of Sifax Group, committed to improving lives through interventions in healthcare, education, community development and social welfare, particularly in under-served communities across Nigeria.
