Lucky Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has approved the rehabilitation of 102 primary healthcare centres as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery and reduce maternal and infant mortality in the state.

The announcement was made in Akure during the opening of a five-day workshop on maternal and newborn mortality reduction innovation and initiative. Representing the governor at the event, Special Adviser on Health Matters Dr Simi Odimayo said the project underscores the administration’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare for women and children.

Dr Odimayo noted that the upgraded facilities will not only improve service delivery but also provide better working environments for health professionals.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, through his representative, said the government is also taking bold steps to boost the welfare of health workers in the state. He announced the implementation of the new national minimum wage, increasing civil servants’ salaries from ₦35,000 to ₦73,000.

He added that newly recruited medical doctors will now start on Grade Level 13, while nurses will begin at Grade Level 10 — a move he said aligns with federal standards and will help attract skilled professionals to the state’s healthcare system.

The governor also revealed plans to construct 50- to 100-bed hospitals in at least five secondary health facilities across the three senatorial districts of the state. He said these facilities will be equipped to provide comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care services.

While commending both federal and state health teams for their dedication, Governor Aiyedatiwa called for continuous community engagement and deliberate policy actions to improve healthcare outcomes.

He expressed optimism that the workshop would result in practical, community-focused solutions to address maternal and child health challenges.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s determination to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and efficient across Ondo State.