IBADAN, Nigeria – The Oyo State Government has officially launched the enrolment of 10,000 public primary school pupils into its healthcare insurance scheme, reinforcing its commitment to accessible healthcare and quality education.

The enrolment ceremony, held at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, was led by the state’s Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, who described the initiative as a crucial step toward ensuring that pupils remain healthy and ready to learn.

“This scheme will ensure that our children have sound minds while they learn in conducive environments. This event is a collective effort in securing a brighter future for the state’s pupils,” Lawal stated while presenting Insurance Scheme ID cards to beneficiaries.

The initiative covers children from 90 public primary schools across 18 local government areas in the state. Officials say plans are underway to extend the coverage to all 33 LGAs.

The Chief of UNICEF’s Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere, lauded the initiative as a significant milestone in achieving universal health coverage for children.

“This initiative reinforces our collective commitment to universal health coverage, ensuring that no child faces financial obstacles to accessing healthcare,” Lafoucriere said.

She emphasized that healthcare access is vital for children’s education and long-term societal progress.

“Universal health coverage is more than a healthcare goal—it is a social and economic necessity. When children have access to healthcare, they can focus on education, grow into productive adults, break the cycle of poverty, and contribute to the success of the state and Nigeria,” she added.

The Chairman of the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board (OYOSUBEB), Nureni Adeniran, commended the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency (OYSHIA) for its role in implementing the scheme, assuring that the board remains committed to its sustainability.

At the event, OYSHIA Executive Secretary Olusola Akande described the scheme as “a new door being opened,” noting that it prioritizes healthcare access for primary school pupils, particularly those in underserved areas.

The state government, in collaboration with UNICEF and other stakeholders, has pledged continuous support to ensure the expansion and long-term success of the healthcare initiative.