Ogun State House of Assembly today passed a resolution proposing the establishment of a Health Trust Fund dedicated to Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) to serve as a fund that will harness financial resources towards the development and maintenance of essential healthcare infrastructure at the hospital.

The fund according to the Sponsor of the Resolution, Hon Babatunde Tella would not only rely on government allocations but also seek contributions from well-meaning Nigerians and friends of the Institution – those who recognized the urgent need for accesst to improved healthcare and are willing to lend their support; as well as multinational corporations and businesses operating within the State, particularly those in sectors that directly benefit from a healthy and capable workforce and are in a position to contribute meaningfully to the community.

The fund sources according to the lawmakers would include the tax collected by the State Government, which could also be deposited just like the Tetfund. 

The passage of the resolution following the debate led by the Sponsor, and was corroborated by some other Lawmakers at the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Oludais Elemide.

According to Hon, Tella, "I rise today to present a motion on an issue that touches the lives of every resident in Ogun State, regardless of age, status, or occupation—the critical need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH). 

Our healthcare system serves as the backbone of our State’s well-being and prosperity, but we are aware of the infrastructural challenges and funding limitations that our teaching hospital currently faces".

Describing the health institution as pivital not only in terms of the health services, but also as a training ground for future medical professionals, he stated that there was the need to provide the institution’s infrastructural requirement, upgrades, expansion, and modernization, as well as consistent funding to maintain its operations to meet the needs of the people. 

"Recognizing that our government alone cannot shoulder this financial burden, it is time to call upon the collective goodwill and support of all stakeholders", he noted.

"Honourable colleagues, healthcare is a fundamental right, and as representatives of the people, it is our duty to ensure that this right is upheld. By establishing a health trust fund for OOUTH, we will create a sustainable financial base that will allow the institution to enhance its infrastructure, procure advanced medical equipment, and provide an environment that is conducive to both patients and medical professionals alike.

This initiative aligns with our shared vision of progress and prosperity for Ogun State. With the establishment of this fund, we will have taken a decisive step toward strengthening our healthcare sector, thus fostering a healthier, more resilient Ogun State.

In light of the above, I move that this Honourable House resolves to:

Approve the establishment of a Health Trust Fund specifically for the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital.

Establish a management committee to oversee the fund, with representation from the Ogun State government, Ministry of Health, OOUTH, alumni of the institution and prominent stakeholders.

Encourage and facilitate contributions from alumni, well-meaning Nigerians, businesses, and multinationals operating in Ogun State to support this trust fund. Ensure periodic reporting on the utilization and impact of the funds raised to maintain transparency and accountability.

Mr. Speaker, honourable members, healthcare is not a responsibility that should fall solely on government shoulders. Let us act today to build a future where Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital can truly serve its purpose to the fullest. This initiative will bring lasting benefits to our State, our healthcare system, and most importantly, our people", Tella stated.

In another development, the Assembly has passed a resolution re-inviting the Management of Dangote Cement Company to avail the House with the plant's master plan, reflecting all its adjuring facilities including the trailer park and industrial drainage channel in line with the international best practices, explaining that it was imperative for the Company to be more alive to its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The passage of the resolution followed the presentation of the report of the joint House Committees on Trade, Commerce and Investment as well as Environment, by the Chairman, Hon. Adebisi Oyedele in respect of the Assembly’s demand for Dangote Cement Company's comprehensive plans to address arbitrary parks, environmental degradation and others at its ibese cement plant in Yewa North Local Government Area of the State.

According to Hon. Oyedele, " the Committee found the company culpable of the allegations leveled against her, the Committee observed the lackadaisical approach and nonchalant attitude of the company to the livelihood of the people, having constructed a cement factory for decades without trailer park and deliberately causing havoc on the host communities, as well as commuters plying the road amongst others.

The Committee therefore, recommended that the Dangote Group "must avail the House with the plant master plan reflecting all its adjuring facilities including the trailer park and industrial drainage channel in line with the international best practices, explaining that it was imperatives for the Company to be more alive to its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)".