The Ajoke Ayisat Afolabi Foundation (AAAF), the philanthropic arm of SIFAX Group, in partnership with Ogun North East Local Government, has enrolled 60 residents from ten rural communities in the first phase of a free health insurance scheme aimed at improving access to quality healthcare for the elderly and vulnerable.
According to Mr Olumuyiwa Akande, Head, Corporate Communications at SIFAX Group, the programme was held at the 400 seater community hall built by Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman of SIFAX Group and AAAF. Beneficiaries were drawn 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 the motivation behind the initiative while presenting a cheque to representatives of the Ogun State Health Insurance Agency (OGSHIA). She revealed that Dr Afolabi observed that a health facility he previously donated to the adjoining Ijebu communities in Isade was being underutilised because many residents could not afford medical bills.
According to her, this discovery prompted the Foundation 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,” Ademokun 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 Dr 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.
Chief M S Odunuga, the village head of Isade, who spoke on behalf of other traditional rulers, commended Dr Afolabi for his consistent commitment to the well-being of the communities, describing the health insurance scheme as timely and impactful.
Also speaking, Otunba Major General Odunsin (Rtd), who oversees the Foundation’s community development projects in the locality, praised the collaboration among 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 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.
