Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has flagged off the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for the informal sector, aimed at providing affordable healthcare to artisans, traders, farmers, commercial transport workers, and private sector workers.

Speaking at the launch, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the importance of collective efforts to improve healthcare accessibility and affordability, stating that health is a fundamental human right and a critical indicator of human development.

The scheme, which has already been successful among public servants since its inception in 2022, aims to cater to the healthcare needs of the informal sector, with the goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Governor Aiyedatiwa praised the leadership of organized labour unions for their support in implementing the scheme for public servants and encouraged participation from all residents, political leaders, philanthropists, and individuals.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Awolowo Ajaka, commended the Governor’s efforts in the health sector, including the recruitment of healthcare workers and the enhancement of doctors’ salaries.

The Director-General, Ondo State Contributory Health Commission (ODCHC), Dr. Abiodun Oyeneyin, stated that the state aims to be among the top five states with the highest health insurance coverage in the country by 2027.

The launch was attended by dignitaries, including the Director-General, National Health Insurance Authority, Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, and the State Coordinator, World Health Organization, Dr. Dele David, who commended the government’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage.