The Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, and a philanthropist, Asiwaju Olalekan Gbenga Oso, on Saturday called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare system, advocating free and subsidised medical services for vulnerable citizens.
They made the call in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during a three-day free medical outreach organised at the Olowu Palace to mark Oso’s 50th birthday and his conferment with a traditional title.
Speaking at the event, Oba Matemilola expressed concern over the rising cost of healthcare, warning that many Nigerians are losing their lives due to inability to afford treatment.
The monarch said the current economic realities had placed quality healthcare beyond the reach of the average citizen, thereby worsening mortality rates, particularly among the poor.
He urged wealthy Nigerians and corporate organisations to complement government efforts by investing in accessible healthcare initiatives.
According to him, such interventions would significantly reduce avoidable deaths and ease the burden on vulnerable populations.
“Access to healthcare is a fundamental human need. Those blessed with resources must prioritise life-saving initiatives that directly impact society,” he said.
The royal father also appealed to indigenes of Owu Kingdom, both at home and in the diaspora, to contribute meaningfully to improving the health and well-being of their people.
In his remarks, Oso stressed the need for governments at all levels to prioritise free or heavily subsidised healthcare services, noting that economic hardship had made basic medical care unaffordable for many Nigerians.
He said the outreach, sustained annually for the past decade, was part of his commitment to giving back to society.
“This initiative is our way of supporting those who cannot afford medical care. We believe government must do more to ensure no Nigerian dies because they lack access to treatment,” he said.
The outreach, facilitated by Mercyship Foundation in collaboration with the Olalekan Gbenga Oso O.G.O Initiative Foundation, offered free medical services including eye examinations, blood pressure and blood sugar tests, as well as malaria screening.
Beneficiaries also received free medications, while medical personnel provided consultations and professional advice.
Medical experts, including Mr. Nnanna Victor Nwabueze of the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta, and Dr. Mrs. Oladejo, attended to patients during the exercise.
Also present was the Coordinator of Mercyship in Lagos and Ogun states, Rev. S.O. Taiwo.
Residents of Abeokuta and neighbouring communities thronged the venue in large numbers, with many describing the intervention as timely.
One of the beneficiaries, Kunle Adewale, said the outreach provided relief he could not have otherwise afforded.
“This has saved many of us. But beyond this, there is a need for lasting solutions to the healthcare challenges in the country,” he said.
The event highlighted the increasing role of private and community-driven initiatives in bridging gaps within Nigeria’s healthcare system, even as stakeholders called for stronger collaboration between government, traditional institutions and individuals.
The outreach formed part of activities marking Oso’s golden jubilee and chieftaincy conferment, attracting dignitaries from within and outside Ogun State.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
