By Our Correspondent
National News – Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved the Ogun State Retirees Health Insurance Scheme (OGRHIS) to provide free healthcare coverage for retirees in the state, ensuring continued access to affordable medical services after years of public service.
The initiative, announced on Thursday in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, was confirmed by the Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya, who said the policy covers all retired public servants across the state, funded with ₦17.4 million monthly premium payment by the government, so retirees will not contribute any cost.
The programme, approved in May 2026 under Governor Abiodun’s social welfare agenda, is designed to improve post-retirement healthcare access and reduce out-of-pocket medical spending.
It follows the earlier Public Sector Health Insurance Scheme introduced in August 2024 for serving workers, expanding coverage to retirees to ensure inclusive healthcare delivery.
Beneficiaries will access accredited healthcare facilities across Ogun State under defined service packages, strengthening preventive and continuous care for ageing citizens.
Healthcare analysts note that the scheme is expected to reduce catastrophic health spending among elderly retirees, improve early diagnosis, and strengthen public health outcomes in Ogun State, while also reinforcing the government’s commitment to social protection and universal health coverage.
By funding the ₦17.4 million monthly premium from state resources, the policy removes financial barriers for retirees who previously relied on out-of-pocket payments.
The initiative reflects a broader strategy by Governor Abiodun’s administration to prioritise ageing citizens, expand insurance penetration, and ensure equitable healthcare delivery across urban and rural communities in the state.
The administration says accredited hospitals across the state will implement the insurance package, ensuring retirees receive quality care without financial stress, aligning with ongoing reforms in the health sector.
The scheme also establishes a structured referral system and standardized service delivery across healthcare facilities, improving efficiency, accountability, and long-term sustainability of health financing in Ogun State.
With the launch of OGRHIS, Ogun State joins Nigeria’s expanding list of subnational governments prioritising universal health coverage for vulnerable populations, particularly pensioners who require sustained medical support in retirement.
