Abeokuta South Rolls Out Health Insurance Scheme for Okada Riders, Passengers

Abeokuta South Local Government has taken a bold step towards enhancing healthcare delivery in the region with the launch of a Health Insurance Scheme for commercial motorcycle riders and passengers. Held at the Local Government Secretariat, Ake, Abeokuta, today, August 13, 2025, the programmme aims to provide financial protection to beneficiaries in the event of accidents or medical emergencies.

Executive Chairman of the Local Government, Hon. Balogun Olaniyi Afeez (BOA), while flagging off the Scheme, disclosed that it is an offshoot of the Ogun State Government’s Policy on inclusive healthcare for all segments of society. According to him, the initiative has been extended to the informal sector, covering all Okada riders and their passengers, with the Council shouldering the Policy costs upfront.

Beneficiaries of the Scheme have expressed their gratitude to the Government for this timely intervention. Usman Musa, a commercial motorcycle rider, described the Scheme as a welcome development that would alleviate the financial burden associated with medical care in the event of accidents. Another beneficiary, Umar Muhammad, hailed the initiative as a long-awaited intervention that would benefit riders like him.

The Seriki Hausa of Egbaland, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan Hassan, who spoke on behalf of the Arewa Community, welcomed the scheme and expressed appreciation to the Government for easing the burden of caring for accident victims. He urged passengers to patronize only insured riders to ensure their safety and well-being.

In his remarks, the Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Dr. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, said the Scheme would be gradually enforced as part of a behavioral change process. He revealed that the initiative would be extended to other segments of society, including taxis and buses, in a bid to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage for all.

The launch of the Health Insurance Scheme is a significant step towards improving healthcare delivery in Abeokuta South Local Government and Abeokuta Metropolitan. As the beneficiaries look forward to reaping the benefits of this initiative, they are optimistic that it would make a positive impact on their lives. With this development, Abeokuta South and North Local Governments have set a shining example for other Local Governments to follow in providing healthcare services to their citizens.

Key Features of the Scheme includes:

• Comprehensive Coverage: The scheme covers treatment for ailments such as malaria, typhoid, diabetes, and hypertension, as well as basic surgeries.
• Voluntary Participation: Participation is strictly voluntary, with no penalties for non-subscribers.
• Coverage for Riders and Passengers: Both riders and passengers are covered in the event of an accident.