The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Oluwatobi Olufade, on Friday officially flagged off the second phase of his administration’s one‑year free health insurance programme for 150 selected residents of the council. The programme, which prioritises health and welfare, follows a highly successful first phase that delivered a wide range of treatments and services to beneficiaries.
Hon. Olufade described the wellbeing of his constituents as a central priority of his administration. “The first phase was a huge success: one beneficiary received a hip replacement costing ₦24 million, two underwent cesarean sections, three had appendectomies, 13 received eye care, eight accessed dental care, and 22 had laboratory investigations and the numbers continue to grow. These results motivated me to launch the second phase, and a third phase will follow soon because health is wealth,” he said.
He thanked party and community leaders, political functionaries, management teams and the entire populace of Ibadan North for their unflinching support, which he said has enabled robust grassroots development and the delivery of the dividends of democracy.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle DON, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ibadan North federal constituency, urged residents especially politicians to prioritise their health. “It’s ignorance that kills. Go to the hospital whenever you notice changes in your body system; everything is not spiritual. I will help ensure more residents are insured soon,” he said. Hon. Oyekunle also thanked leaders and attendees for their support for Hon. Olufade and the APM candidates, pledging not to disappoint them.
The Chairman, College of Health & Science, Eleyele, Hon. Babatunde Olaniyan encouraged residents to use health facilities for preventive care as well as treatment. “Hospitals are not meant for the sick alone. You can go for regular checkups; you must know your BP and sugar levels. Your OYSHIA card is not just a card, it is access to free health care and peace of mind,” he said, while thanking the Executive Chairman and advising beneficiaries to use the service judiciously.
In her welcome address, Dr. Aminat Aboderin, Medical Officer of Health, Ibadan North Local Government, commended Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade for his commitment to his people. She urged the public to use Ibadan North’s primary health care facilities, noting their equipment, trained personnel and availability of free treatment. She reminded second‑phase beneficiaries to take full advantage of this rare opportunity.
In the same vein, Dr. Sola Akande, Executive Secretary, Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA), described Hon. Olufade as a kindhearted leader committed to the wellbeing of all council residents. He commended the inclusive enrollment across tribes, religions and wards, and confirmed that Hon. Olufade enrolled the highest number of people with OYSHIA among local government chairmen.
According to Dr. Akande health insurance is financial protection and access to treatment that prevents catastrophic health spending. He urged beneficiaries to utilise the scheme responsibly and called on well‑meaning Nigerians and politicians to emulate Hon. Olufade’s approach: “It’s not necessary to give motorcycles or rice every time. Enroll people in OYSHIA, enroll your drivers, cooks, students and the less privileged.” He noted that enrollment can be done at the OYSHIA head office, Ministry of Training & Establishment, Oyo State Secretariat, at zonal offices and via www.oyshia.oy.gov.ng
In his goodwill message, Alhaji Mustapha Ademuyiwa, APM Party Chairman, Ibadan North Local Government, praised Hon. Olufade’s performance and thanked residents and leaders for their support.
Beneficiaries’ representatives, Olooye Olafenwa Ramoni Olacity and Mogaji Abdullahi, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Executive Chairman, describing him as a local embodiment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s compassion. They pledged to use the benefit judiciously and prayed for success in his future endeavours.
The programme included orientation for new beneficiaries and featured a surprise birthday celebration for Madam Felicia Ajuwon.
Dignitaries in attendance included Hon. Akeem Ayoade (Vice Chairman/Political Head, Aare Latosa LCDA); Hon. Taiwo Adebola (Leader, Legislative Chamber); Hon. Oladejo Oluwafemi Olayiwola (Political Head, Irepodun LCDA); Hon. Mustapha Hamdy (Chief of Staff); other Honourable Councillor’s; Supervisory Councillors; Special Assistants; Mr. Ajebisi Olabode (Head of Local Government Administration); Mr. Rotimi Ajibola (Acting HLGA, Aare Latosa LCDA); Directors; Mr. Yisahu Aderibigbe (Head of Media to the Executive Chairman), and other community leaders.
