The Ondo government has reactivated the state’s long-dormant Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to ensure quick rescue and treatment of accident victims at no cost within the first 48 hours of admission.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced the revival during the 2025 Annual Socio-Scientific Conference and Training of the Association of Medical Social Workers of Nigeria (AMSWON), held at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Health Matters, Prof. Simidele Odimayo, the governor said the initiative was restructured and rebranded to enhance response time and service delivery. He added that renovation works were underway at EMS base stations in Bolorunduro (Ondo East), Igbara-Oke (Ifedore), and Ore (Odigbo).
“Accident victims in the state can now access emergency assistance by calling dedicated numbers, after which ambulances will convey them to the nearest hospital for treatment,” he said.
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“The Ondo government will cover all medical expenses incurred within the first 48 hours of such emergencies.”
Aiyedatiwa also highlighted ongoing health sector reforms, including upgrades at secondary facilities in Ikare Akoko, Okitipupa, and Ore, as well as the renovation of over 100 healthcare centres across the state with improved infrastructure and utilities.
In his remarks, Dr. Michael Gbala, Chief Medical Director of UNIMED Teaching Hospital, called for a more data-driven approach to healthcare delivery, urging medical social workers to track financial aid and patient support for better planning and equity.
Similarly, Prof. Jane Adebusuyi of Lead City University, Ibadan, urged social workers to amplify their advocacy efforts, describing them as “the voice of the voiceless” in the healthcare system.
The Ondo government said the renewed EMS initiative reflects its broader commitment to accessible, responsive, and people-centred healthcare across the state.