By Adesakin Adefemi
In a bid to enhance emergency medical services and reduce maternal mortality rates, the Ogun State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (OGSEMSAS) in conjunction with the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (NEMSAS) hosted a stakeholders’ town-hall meeting in Ijebu-Ode on February 25, 2026, at Itoorun Ijebu-Ode.
The meeting aimed to promote Rural Emergency Services and Maternal Transport services (RESMAT) and educate residents on emergency response procedures, urging them to call 0811 200 0033 for immediate assistance.
Dr. Hassan Adelakun, State Director of OGSEMSAS, stated that the purpose of the town hall meeting is to educate the people of Ijebu-Ode on how to respond to emergency situations, particularly those involving pregnant women and children under 5 years old, by calling the emergency contact number 0811 200 0033.
He explained that the ambulance rescue team would be dispatched immediately to transport victims to the hospital for free emergency and medical services for 48 hours, a move expected to significantly reduce mortality rates in the state.
OGSEMSAS is collaborating with Primary Health Centres to provide RESMAT for pregnant women and children under 5 years old, a programme that has already shown promising results in other parts of the state. A Closer User Group (CUG) has also been established for Primary Health Centre workers to facilitate free communication and ensure seamless coordination during emergencies.
Mrs. Olanpeleke Olufunke, NEMSAS representative, stated that the RESMAT programme was established by the government to support vulnerable individuals and reduce financial burdens, specifically through Rural Emergency Services and Maternal Transport services.
She urged residents to call 0811 200 0033 during emergency situations and share the emergency contact with their loved ones, emphasizing that timely medical intervention is critical in saving lives.
Mrs. Florence Thompson also stated that the RESMAT programme is yielding positive results in Ijebu-Ode Local Government, with significant strides made in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality .
The Ogun State MAMII programme has achieved 95% activation in MAMII Local Government Areas, with 1146 patients transported for various obstetric emergencies, including 293 cases of obstetric emergencies and 214 labour and delivery cases.
The programme has reported zero maternal and neonatal mortalities, a testament to its effectiveness and a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to improve healthcare outcomes.
The State Emergency Maternal and Newborn Care Services (SEMSAS) setup is also nearing completion, with a 95% status, a move expected to further enhance emergency medical services in the state.
Residents of Isiwo ward, including Mrs. Davies Oludamilola praised the ambulance service, citing timely assistance and care. Mrs. Ogunsanya Ololade stated that the ambulance has been a game-changer for pregnant women, providing much-needed support and saving lives.
Mr. Awoyemi Olufemi, a Community Based First Responder, stated that the ambulance service is available 24/7 and urged residents to continue calling 0811 200 0033 for emergency medical transport, emphasizing that every minute counts in emergency situations.
The Supervisor of Health, Mrs. Birisiyu Kafayat Adedayo stated that the ambulance has been saving lives and easing concerns, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited.
She appreciated the efforts of NEMSAS and OGSEMSAS in making the initiative a success and urged residents to take advantage of the free ambulance services.
Dr. Abiodun Olorunsogo Oyenekan, the Deputy Director and Head of Operations OGSEMSAS, expressed profound gratitude to the Honourable Commissioner of Health, Tomi Coker, for his unwavering support to the department, and Dr. Kehinde Oladehinde, Permanent Secretary of the Ogun State Ministry of Health, for his exemplary leadership role.
He also acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the participants, Community Based First Responders, and OGSEMSAS staffers, whose tireless efforts have contributed to the success of the programme.
The launch of the RESMAT programme is a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to achieve universal healthcare coverage, and it is hoped that it will inspire similar initiatives in other parts of the country, ultimately contributing to the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality rates in Nigeria. Call 0811 200 0033 for emergencies.
