The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has approved the extension of health insurance coverage to the retirees in the state under a newly introduced scheme known as the Ogun State Retirees Health Insurance Scheme (OGRHIS).
Penpushing reports that Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya made this known in a statement, explaining that the approval was in further demonstration of government stern commitment to the welfare and dignity of retired public servants in Ogun State,
The number one civil servant said the initiative is designed to cater for retired public servants thereby ensuring that they continue to enjoy access to quality and affordable healthcare services after retirement.
Penpushing further reports that Onasanya, added that the Governor has approved the payment of N17.4 million monthly for the payment of the retiree health insurance premium, adding that all retirees will enjoy the full insurance coverage without paying or contributing any amount.
The Head of Service explained that it is to show that this administration understands the value of taking care of retirees, which marks another significant milestone under the ‘Social Welfare and Wellbeing’ agenda of the present administration which is aimed at safeguarding the health and wellbeing of retired officers who devoted the productive years of their lives to the service and development of Ogun State.
Penpushing also reports that Onasanya stated that the laudable initiative follows the successful implementation of the Public Sector Health Insurance Scheme for serving Public Servants introduced by the State Government in August, 2024.
The Head of Service emphasized that it further reflects the deliberate policy direction of government towards inclusive healthcare coverage for all categories of workers, including those in retirement.
Penpushing reports that he said the approval equally underscores the strong commitment of the present administration to improving the welfare of retirees and preserving their dignity after active service, while recognizing the reality that many pensioners face increasing health challenges and financial pressures associated with medical care during retirement.
The statement stated that under the Ogun State Retirees Health Insurance Scheme (OGRHIS), beneficiaries will have access to a defined package of healthcare services through accredited healthcare facilities across the state.
Penpushing further reports that he said the scheme is equally expected to reduce the burden of out-of-pocket medical expenses and prevent catastrophic healthcare spending among retirees while encouraging continuous healthcare management.
The Head of Service on behalf of the entire workforce and retirees appreciated the governor for the remarkable and magnanimous gesture and acknowledge his consistent disposition towards the welfare of both serving and retired officers which clearly demonstrates visionary leadership and a deep understanding that human capital.
Penpushing also reports that he noted that by prioritising the health and welfare of pensioners, the governor has once again reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and responsible leadership that values the contributions of those who laid the foundation upon which successive administrations continue to build.
The number one civil servant called on the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency (OGSHIA) and all relevant stakeholders to ensure seamless enrolment, effective sensitisation and smooth implementation of the Scheme in order to guarantee that retirees fully benefit from this laudable intervention.
Penpushing reports that the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) Waheed Oloyede in a swift reaction to the free health Insurance scheme for retirees in Ogun State, appreciated the Governor for the kind gesture.
“Many of the senior citizens are battling with multiple health challenges, but with this free health Insurance scheme, it will erase health related expenses because it is a health relief’, he stated
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