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The Ogun State Government has approved a free health insurance scheme for retirees in the state as part of efforts to improve welfare and healthcare access for former public servants. Governor Dapo Abiodun approved the initiative under a new programme known as the Ogun State Retirees Health Insurance Scheme, according to a statement issued by the State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya. 
Under the scheme, the Ogun State Government will reportedly pay about ₦17.4 million monthly as health insurance premiums on behalf of retirees, allowing beneficiaries to access healthcare services without making any personal financial contribution. Officials said the programme was designed to ensure retired workers continue to enjoy affordable and quality medical care after leaving active service. 
The Head of Service explained that the initiative followed the successful rollout of the Public Sector Health Insurance Scheme introduced for serving civil servants in August 2024. Retirees enrolled under the new scheme will have access to healthcare services through accredited hospitals and medical facilities across Ogun State, helping to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses and prevent financial hardship caused by health emergencies. 
According to the state government, the programme aligns with Governor Abiodun’s “Social Welfare and Wellbeing” agenda and is intended to reward retirees for their years of service to the state. The Ogun State Health Insurance Agency had previously indicated plans to extend formal sector insurance coverage to pensioners and retirees as part of broader efforts toward universal health coverage in the state. 
The development has been welcomed by pension stakeholders, especially amid growing concerns over healthcare costs and welfare challenges facing retirees across Nigeria. In recent years, pensioners’ groups had repeatedly appealed for improved access to health insurance and medical support to ease the burden of treatment expenses after retirement. 
