President Bola Tinubu has praised Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa, a renowned industrialist and philanthropist, for his monumental N2 billion donation towards the establishment of the Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Foundation Trauma Centre at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, Ogun State. The state-of-the-art trauma centre, built to mark Adegunwa’s 80th birthday, is a groundbreaking contribution to Nigeria’s healthcare system.
In a ceremony attended by Senator Gbenga Daniel, Senator Afolabi Salisu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and other dignitaries, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between the private and public sectors to improve healthcare access for all Nigerians.
“This trauma centre is not just a birthday gift, it’s a gift to humanity. It stands as a testament to the legacy of a man whose wealth is measured by the lives he impacts,” said President Tinubu.
Lifeline for Emergency Care
The Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Foundation Trauma Centre aims to provide immediate, high-quality medical intervention during emergencies, particularly accidents, a critical need in a country facing rapid urbanization and industrial growth.
Tinubu highlighted that the Federal Government is committed to revitalizing Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind in accessing emergency care. The Sulaiman Adegunwa Trauma Centre is a timely addition to the nation’s healthcare facilities, especially for those who require urgent medical attention in the critical first moments after an accident.
“For a nation experiencing growing urbanization, a trauma centre is essential. It’s not just a building; it’s a sanctuary for healing, a place where help is close by when tragedy strikes,” said Tinubu.
Private-Public Sector Collaboration for Healthcare Development
The President stressed that the health sector’s growth requires the active involvement of both the private and public sectors, noting that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility. Tinubu urged private sector players, philanthropists, and foundations to take inspiration from Adegunwa’s initiative and contribute to building a healthier Nigeria.
“The government’s commitment to healthcare is clear, but we need more private players to join us in this cause. The future of healthcare in Nigeria depends on this synergy,” Tinubu stated.
A Legacy of Service and Impact
During the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun lauded Adegunwa’s generosity and support in revitalizing the hospital. He revealed that the hospital was in a state of disrepair before his administration intervened, and the N2bn trauma centre is part of efforts to improve healthcare delivery in the state.
“This trauma centre is not just for Ogun State; it’s a lifeline for all Nigerians travelling through our major highways, including the Lagos-Ibadan and Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode-Benin expressways,” said Governor Abiodun.
A Timely Intervention for Accident Victims
The Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, highlighted that the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway and Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode-Benin Expressway are among the country’s most accident-prone roads, with the state recording 40% of the nation’s accidents. The trauma centre will play a vital role in ensuring quick medical intervention and reducing fatalities in these areas.
“This trauma centre will save lives by providing immediate care at the scene of accidents and emergencies,” said Coker.
The Call to Serve: A Legacy of Giving
In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa expressed that his philanthropic efforts were driven by a desire to give back to society. He urged other Nigerians, particularly business leaders, to prioritize humanitarian efforts and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
“I believe in impacting the world around me, and I hope others will also step up to make a difference,” Adegunwa shared.
Looking to the Future: A New Era for Healthcare in Nigeria
The Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Foundation Trauma Centre symbolizes a new chapter for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, offering immediate medical support and serving as a model for private-public collaboration in improving the country’s healthcare system. With more partnerships like this, the future of Nigeria’s healthcare system is indeed looking brighter.
