Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Thursday, inaugurated a series of health-focused programs in Umuahia, Abia State, in collaboration with the Olusegun Obasanjo Foundation and the Starkey Foundation. The initiatives include the Abia State Formal Sector Health Insurance Scheme, Abia Health Outreach, and a free hearing aid distribution campaign.
During the launch, Obasanjo praised Governor Alex Otti for his leadership and commitment to healthcare reform, calling him a “performing governor.” He noted that healthcare access inspired the formation of his own foundation, emphasizing that “health security, health for all,” remains central to Nigeria’s development.
“One key area of interest for us is hearing,” Obasanjo said, adding that hearing loss, often linked to aging, should not carry stigma. He advocated for training professionals to manage hearing aids and assist those with related challenges.
He further explained that personal security begins with physical well-being, which includes access to nutrition, healthcare, and safe environments. “No one should be left behind,” he emphasized, calling for inclusive healthcare policies.
Obasanjo also touched on his foundation’s broader focus, including youth employment, education, and treatment of non-communicable diseases—especially hearing-related issues. “We’re doing what we can,” he said, “but the need out there is vast.”
Governor Otti, in his remarks, reiterated his administration’s vision for a responsive and equitable healthcare system. He pledged that no resident of New Abia would be denied medical services due to financial limitations.
He highlighted the formal sector health insurance scheme as a game-changer, promising access to 24/7 quality care for tens of thousands of civil servants and their families. “This initiative will drastically reduce out-of-pocket costs, discourage self-medication, and improve access to care across the state,” Otti stated.
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