Thousands of persons living with disabilities (PLWDs) in Osun State have benefitted from life-changing support through Governor Ademola Adeleke’s Life-Support Gadgets Initiative. The program, a highlight of the second-anniversary celebrations of Adeleke’s administration, was held on Tuesday at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park in Osogbo, the state capital.
The beneficiaries, selected from all 30 local government areas of the state, received essential life-support equipment, including wheelchairs, crutches, walking sticks, talking watches, artificial limbs, hearing aids, ultraviolet umbrellas, and specialized items for albinos such as creams and glasses. Additionally, free health insurance cards were distributed to further support their well-being.
Speaking at the event, Governor Adeleke expressed joy in fulfilling yet another of his campaign promises. He emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents of Osun, particularly vulnerable groups.
“I am overjoyed today as I fulfill another of my campaign promises,” Governor Adeleke said. “I pledged to prioritize the welfare of our people, and I stand here today to affirm that commitment. Earlier this year, we directed the Osun Health Insurance Agency (OSHIA) to enroll all pensioners into the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS) for free healthcare. Today, over 25,000 pensioners are beneficiaries of this trailblazing initiative.”
The governor further highlighted the administration’s collaboration with Rotary International to provide free medical and surgical outreach for senior citizens, adding that similar efforts were being extended to persons with disabilities. “My dear pensioners, please rise for recognition as a testament to our shared progress,” he urged during the event.
He continued, “Today, we are not only providing free OHIS cards to persons with disabilities but also equipping them with life-support gadgets and medical aids to enhance their quality of life. These individuals are integral members of our society who have continuously supported my administration. This initiative is for them.”
In addition to the distribution of aids, Governor Adeleke announced plans to provide free surgical procedures for PLWDs with curable ailments. He praised the leadership and staff of OSHIA for their dedication to the state’s health programs and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving healthcare access across sectors.
“From the Imole Free Medical and Surgical Outreach to addressing the exodus of health workers by ensuring prompt payment of allowances, we are proving our commitment to bettering the lives of our people. This is just the beginning as we aim to make healthcare in Osun not just good, but the best,” he concluded.
The Executive Secretary of OSHIA, Dr. Rasaq Akindele, also commended the initiative. He revealed that 9,500 PLWDs, including individuals with physical disabilities, spinal cord injuries, albinism, and sensory impairments, have been enrolled in OHIS at no cost. Dr. Akindele reiterated the administration’s determination to ease the daily lives of the beneficiaries