AAA Foundation Launches Free Health Insurance Scheme for Elderly, Vulnerable Residents in Ogun Rural Communities
Kathy Kyari
The Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation (AAAF), the philanthropic arm of SIFAX Group, has partnered with Ogun North East Local Government to enrol 60 elderly and vulnerable residents from ten rural communities into the first phase of a free health insurance scheme designed to improve access to quality healthcare.
The initiative, implemented in collaboration with the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency (OGSHIA), was unveiled at a 400-seater community hall built by the Chairman of SIFAX Group and AAAF, Dr Taiwo Afolabi. Beneficiaries were selected from Isade, Ajowa, Idomila, Iken, Igbogila, Rasonwa, Ilefon, Ileshe, Sanyindo and Idomowo villages.
Speaking at the event, the Foundation’s Executive Coordinator, Mrs Foluke Ademokun, who represented Dr Afolabi, explained that the programme was informed by the underutilisation of a health facility earlier donated to the adjoining Ijebu communities in Isade.
She disclosed that many residents were unable to access the facility due to their inability to pay medical bills, a challenge that prompted the Foundation to intervene through health insurance coverage.
“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,” Ademokun said, while presenting a cheque to OGSHIA representatives.
The Chairman of Ogun North East Local Government, Hon Foluso Badejo, accompanied by the council’s Health Supervisor, Hon Oside Olalekan, expressed appreciation for Dr Afolabi’s sustained support for the area.
He noted that the philanthropist’s interventions, including markets, schools, football fields, ICT centres and medical facilities have continued to complement government efforts to improve the welfare of residents.
Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers, the village head of Isade, Chief M. S. Odunuga, described the health insurance scheme as timely and impactful, commending Dr Afolabi for his consistent commitment to the well-being of rural communities.
Also speaking, Otunba Major General Odunsin (Rtd), who oversees the Foundation’s community development projects in the locality, praised the collaboration between community leaders, government agencies and AAAF.
He commended the transparent beneficiary selection process across the villages and the efficient issuance of health insurance cards by OGSHIA officials, assuring beneficiaries that the programme is being implemented with integrity.
The free health insurance scheme is expected to significantly reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses and improve the utilisation of healthcare facilities in the participating communities. The Foundation has indicated that additional phases of the initiative are under consideration.
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