Chronicles Of Core Achievements Of Governor Aiyedatiwa..

 

Transforming Healthcare in Ondo State: The Leadership Impact of Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s Government.

The Ondo State health sector is undergoing a renaissance—driven by purposeful leadership, visionary policy direction, and a commitment to sustainable development. Under the stewardship of Prof. Michael Simodele Odimayo, the Special Adviser on Health to Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the sector is witnessing transformative reforms and bold interventions geared towards improved health outcomes for all residents.

From structural upgrades to systemic innovations, Prof. Odimayo has delivered on a multidimensional strategy aimed at restoring confidence in the state’s healthcare system. Below are highlights of key achievements under his leadership:

Strengthened Oversight and Facility Monitoring

In a move to ensure accountability and optimal service delivery, the government reactivated routine supervision and monitoring exercises across health facilities. This revitalized process enables prompt identification and resolution of challenges at facility levels.

Welfare Boost: New Salary Structure for Healthcare Workers

In recognition of their indispensable role, the government approved a befitting salary structure for healthcare workers—boosting morale, reducing brain drain, and attracting more skilled professionals to serve in the state.

Improved Emergency Response: Ambulance Procurement

A significant milestone was achieved with the approval for the purchase of ambulances, including fully equipped buses and tricycles, to enhance emergency health services—particularly in rural and hard-to-reach communities.

Infrastructure Development: Pharma-Grade Building Commissioned

The government commissioned a pharma-grade facility to strengthen pharmaceutical logistics. In addition, two brand new SUVs were procured for the Drug Management Agency to facilitate effective distribution and monitoring.

Nearing Completion: The Contributory Health House

Construction of the Ondo State Contributory Health House is almost complete. The facility will serve as the operational hub for health insurance administration and access expansion across the state.

Strategic Upgrade: From UNIMEDTH to FUTA Teaching Hospital

In a visionary stride, the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital has been upgraded to the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) Teaching Hospital—positioning it as a federal facility to attract more resources, research, and advanced care.

Equipment Acquisition and Energy Solutions

To enhance clinical care, the government embarked on the purchase of state-of-the-art medical equipment. Additionally, to tackle power disruptions, solar energy systems have been installed in health facilities to ensure uninterrupted service delivery.

Revival of Over 100 Primary Health Centres

More than 100 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) have been reactivated, with provisions for security, potable water, sanitation, and staff support—bringing care closer to the grassroots.

Prioritizing Maternal and Neonatal Health

The administration has reenergized maternal and neonatal healthcare services, ensuring safer deliveries, reducing infant mortality, and increasing access to skilled birth attendants.

Lassa Fever Control and Elimination Research and Response

A pioneering Lassa Fever Control And Elimination Research has been launched, demonstrating the state’s proactive stance in combating endemic diseases and enhancing public health research capacity.

Inclusion of Informal Sector in Health Insurance

Recognizing the economic reality of most citizens, the informal sector has now been incorporated into the state’s health insurance scheme, expanding coverage and affordability.

Special Infrastructural Interventions

Under a special intervention initiative, the government has commenced provision of 250-bedded health facilities in Ikare, Ore, Okitipupa, and Igbokoda, as well as 50-bedded facilities in Ondo and Irele—significantly to increase in-patient care capacity.

Understandably, these reforms and initiatives spearheaded by Prof. Michael Simidele Odimayo underscore a renewed vision and political will to transform Ondo State's healthcare delivery system. With Governor Aiyedatiwa’s continued support, Ondo is steadily emerging as a model of sub-national health leadership in Nigeria.

A Publication of the The Truereporter.