Aiyedatiwa commends philanthropist’s donation to UNIMED, highlights strides in healthcare
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Friday, commissioned a 20-bedded, one-storey building for house officers (intern doctors) at the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital Complex (UNIMEDTH), Akure. The facility was donated by businessman Chief Sunday Owoyemi, popularly known as Sunny Owo.
At the handover ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the donation as a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to enhance healthcare delivery. He praised Owoyemi’s generosity, noting that it reflects the spirit of partnership and collective responsibility.
Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted his administration’s commitment to healthcare, noting the expansion of the State Contributory Health Commission to cover informal sector workers, including artisans and market women. He also cited the Abiyamo Maternal and Child Health Insurance, which has served over 56,394 beneficiaries with 19,047 safe deliveries recorded.
He further revealed that the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) has catered to 105,116 enrollees across formal and informal sectors, while modern health insurance facilities have been established in five government hospitals under the Hospital Intervention Programme. The Ondo State Emergency Medical Services Agency is also being revitalized, with plans to reactivate the Emergency Call Centre in Ondo and procure additional ambulances.
The governor announced that the new 250-bedded hospital complex at UNIMEDTH is 93% complete. He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the establishment of the FUTA Teaching Hospital, describing it as a development that will revolutionize healthcare delivery and expand training, research, and employment opportunities.
Speaking on the new building for intern doctors, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized its role in addressing the brain drain challenge, improving welfare, morale, and productivity. “An investment like this is a deliberate effort to retain talent, attract new professionals, and reassure our medical personnel that Ondo State is a place to serve with pride,” he said.
In his remarks, Chief Owoyemi encouraged other philanthropists to support healthcare initiatives, highlighting the transient nature of wealth.
Also speaking at the event, the state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka, and Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Simidele Odimayo, commended both the governor and the donor, noting that the facility, alongside a donated ambulance, will significantly enhance healthcare delivery in the state.
