Paul Akomolehin, South West
DAILY COURIER — Vice President Kashim Shettima and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun yesterday commissioned the Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Trauma Centre at the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, describing it as a landmark contribution to Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and a symbol of partnership between government and the private sector.
The world-class facility, constructed and donated by the Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Foundation, is a strategic response to Nigeria’s growing emergency healthcare needs and part of the Federal Government’s broader Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.
In his remarks, Vice President Shettima highlighted the importance of the trauma centre in strengthening emergency response capabilities and commended Alhaji (Dr.) Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, OFR, the Asiwaju of Ijebuland, for his philanthropy. He noted that the facility’s establishment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s plan to overhaul the healthcare sector, which includes the establishment of over 8,800 new Primary Healthcare Centres and upgrades to tertiary institutions across the country to enhance trauma, oncology, and infectious disease control.
“This centre is more than a birthday gift,” Shettima said. “It is a gift to humanity—a lifeline and a sanctuary where the wounded can find healing, and where families in despair can find hope.”
The Vice President called for greater private sector participation in Nigeria’s healthcare transformation efforts, stressing that purposeful partnerships are essential to bridging infrastructure gaps and improving healthcare outcomes nationwide.
Speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun described the commissioning as a major milestone in his administration’s mission to deliver accessible and affordable healthcare to Ogun residents. He recounted that upon assuming office in 2019, the teaching hospital was in a deplorable state—prompting his government to declare a health emergency, set up a panel led by Dr. Yemi Onabowale, and embark on a series of critical reforms.
He noted that Chief Adegunwa played a key role in that transformation, not only as a partner but also as a visionary who understood the urgent need for a modern trauma facility at such a strategic location.
“The centre is perfectly positioned along the Lagos-Ibadan and Sagamu-Benin expressways, making it vital for managing trauma and emergencies,” Abiodun said. “It is a legacy that will save countless lives for years to come.”
Governor Abiodun praised Adegunwa’s donation as a demonstration of patriotism, service, and commitment to humanity, urging other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate his example. He also expressed confidence that the collaboration between the state and federal governments, coupled with private sector support, would help build a healthcare system that truly works for all.
“As a government, we remain committed to strengthening healthcare as a pillar of sustainable development,” the governor concluded. “Together, we can ensure that every Nigerian has access to quality medical care when it matters most.”
The commissioning drew dignitaries from across the country and reaffirmed Ogun State’s role as a hub for healthcare innovation and investment. The Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Trauma Centre is expected to begin operations immediately, offering emergency services to patients across the state and neighbouring regions.
