The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) in Osun says the enrolment of its members in the state’s health insurance scheme by Governor Ademola Adeleke has reduced the death rate among pensioners.

The union’s secretary, Lawrence Aina, stated this on Thursday while speaking with journalists at the union’s headquarters in Osogbo.

The state government, in 2025, enrolled 20,000 pensioners in its health insurance scheme free of charge to guarantee access to quality healthcare services.

Mr Aina described the initiative as a lifesaver amid the rising cost of medical care, noting that many retirees could barely afford feeding, let alone hospital bills, on their monthly pensions.

“The 20,000 pensioners enrolled were verified by us, and the figure is accurate. Our members are truly benefiting from quality medical services under the scheme.

“Although the scheme initially covered minor ailments, it now pays a percentage of the cost for surgical procedures.

“The state government should consider covering the full cost of operations for beneficiaries who may require them,” he said.

Mr Aina also commended the governor for the additional N25,000 added to monthly pensions, saying the increment brought relief and further reduced mortality among members.

A pensioner, Koka Koleosho, who also spoke with journalists, praised the initiative, saying it eased financial pressures.

Mr Koleosho stated that he could now use his pension for feeding while accessing medical care through the insurance scheme.

(NAN)