The Ondo State Government has announced its readiness to support the treatment and transportation costs of medical emergencies within the first 48 hours through the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) under the Federal Ministry of Health.
As part of efforts to strengthen pre-hospital care and improve healthcare delivery across the state, the government has also donated new ambulances for deployment across health facilities.
This was disclosed by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa during the launch of the State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System in Akure on Wednesday. Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, the governor said the initiative is crucial to ensuring timely medical intervention for residents in emergency situations. He added that a fully functional 24-hour call centre has been reactivated to support rapid response.
Aiyedatiwa explained that the intervention aligns with his administration’s “OUR EASE” development agenda, which prioritises protection of lives regardless of social or economic status. “Medical emergencies such as road accidents, health crises, obstetric complications and other life-threatening situations occur daily in our society, often resulting in preventable deaths due to the lack of timely help,” he said.
Highlighting the preparedness of the emergency response team, the governor noted that over 100 frontline responders have been trained for effective management of medical emergencies, with continuous training planned to equip personnel with modern techniques. “This is a functional 24/7 call and dispatch centre where calls will be received for the prompt deployment of ambulances,” he said.
He commended NEMSAS, private hospital operators and ambulance owners for partnering with the state to enhance healthcare efficiency.
In her remarks, the Director General of NEMSAS, Hajia Fatima Ciroma, said the system would help reduce the burden on hospitals, as patients would now have a higher chance of receiving medical attention before arriving at a facility. She noted that the scheme is supported by a fleet of ambulances—including Basic Life Support units, Advanced Life Support units, tricycle (keke) ambulances—and highly trained medical personnel capable of handling a wide range of emergencies.
Ondo State FRSC Commandant, Samuel Ibitoye, also praised the initiative as a crucial component of road safety management. He commended the governor for integrating the state into NEMSAS and for reviving the Ondo State Emergency Medical Services Agency (ODEMSA), which he described as previously a reference point in emergency medical care.
