Alaafin urges affordable healthcare for vulnerable Nigerians
By Adejayan Gbenga
The Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has called for affordable healthcare for vulnerable Nigerians, describing it as an urgent moral and economic necessity.
Oba Owoade made the call on Sunday at the official commissioning of Muslim Hospital, Oyo, according to a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye.
According to the monarch, the high cost of medical care could push poor families deeper into poverty, as many households still pay for healthcare directly from their pockets.
He said the rising cost of medicines and hospital bills often forces vulnerable families to make difficult choices, including skipping meals or selling personal belongings, while expensive healthcare could discourage people from seeking early treatment for illnesses such as malaria.
To address these challenges, the Alaafin advocated taking healthcare services closer to communities through mobile clinics and telemedicine, particularly for people living in rural and underserved areas.
He also called for the revitalisation of primary healthcare centres, stressing that stronger facilities would improve access to medical services because they serve as the first point of contact for many vulnerable Nigerians.
He further noted that strengthening primary healthcare facilities, expanding micro-health insurance, deploying mobile clinics and improving governance are critical to achieving equitable healthcare access across the country.
The monarch also commended those involved in the construction of Muslim Hospital for their commitment and dedication, while congratulating residents of Agbogangan community on the new facility. He expressed optimism that the hospital would help address the healthcare needs of residents. The ceremony featured fundraising and the presentation of awards to deserving individuals.
