Cyprus on Thursday bid farewell to a key figure in its modern healthcare history, Nikos Ioannou, who passed away, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, reform and service. He died at the age of 88.

Ioannou, father of Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou, was the first president of the health insurance organisation (HIO) and a leading architect of Cyprus’ national health scheme (Gesy). He also served as president of the Pancyprian medical association. He is remembered as a man of vision, professionalism and deep humanity.

“Nikos Ioannou was always present when his country called,” President Nikos Christodoulides said, “especially in 1974, when he provided vital services at his clinic by treating and sheltering the wounded during the Turkish invasion.”

A respected doctor and public servant, Ioannou played a crucial role in the country’s response to the 1974 Turkish invasion.

“More than 800 wounded soldiers and civilians were treated at the Ioannou clinic during the invasion until the autumn of 74. My father, Nikos Ioannou, never left and slept on the examination table,” Constantinos Ioannou said in a post on social media.

“Despite being offered compensation by the government for his services, he refused a single cent. ‘It was my duty,’ he used to say. My uncle Andreas Ioannou, a nurse at the general hospital, didn’t return home for two months during the invasion. These were the other heroes of the Turkish invasion.”

Ioannou later emerged as a driving force behind the creation and implementation of Gesy that now serves thousands of citizens daily. His leadership roles as head of the Pancyprian medical association and as Gesy’s inaugural president helped lay the foundation for a more equitable health service in Cyprus.

He was also featured in an episode of CyBC’s Ekini & Ekini programme, where he discussed the history of medicine in Cyprus, in connection with the book Kyprion Iatron Erga by cardiologist Lakis Anastasiades, whom he supported and advised with valuable information.

Beyond policy and practice, Ioannou was admired for his ethical conduct, tireless dedication to public health, and his genuine care for every patient.

Disy also paid tribute, recalling Ioannou as a founding member of the party and a close associate of Glafcos Clerides, describing him as a distinguished figure whose life exemplified dignity, vision and service to the public good.

Dipa expressed sincere condolences to the minister and his family, honouring Ioannou’s “invaluable scientific and social contribution to Cyprus”.

“We extend our heartfelt sympathy and support to his family, loved ones, and all who worked with him,” the party said.

The HIO also expressed its deep sorrow over Ioannou’s sudden passing.

“Ioannou served the institution with dedication and foresight, laying the groundwork for one of the most significant social reforms in our country,” the HIO said.

“His contribution was pivotal in making the vision of universal, equal and high-quality healthcare a reality for all citizens.”

The organisation extended its sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.