Renowned industrialist and distinguished benefactor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Dr. Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa, has donated a state-of-the-art trauma centre to the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu. The facility, valued at the sum of N2billion, was inaugurated by Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, to mark the 80th birthday of the donor on Saturday, 6th April, 2025.
The newly completed Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Trauma Centre, constructed in less than 12 months, was envisioned as a regional referral hub to deliver critical, life-saving care and reduce the incidence of preventable deaths across Ogun State and its environs. The 50-bed centre is highly equipped withfacilities such as an elevator for seamless patient transfer, three adequately equipped surgical suites, a modern intensive care unit, advanced imaging technology to facilitate rapid and accurate diagnosis, dedicated resuscitation bays for immediate life-saving interventions, and a High Dependency Unit (HDU) to provide a crucial bridge between intensive care and general ward care.
In his speech at the commissioning, the frontline philanthropist disclosed that he donated the trauma centre in furtherance of his commitment to giving back to the society and making positive impact on the lives of the people.
Dr. Adegunwa, who is the Asiwaju of Ijebuland, expressed optimism that the facility would serve as a sanctuary of healing and recovery for individuals facing life-threatening injuries and sudden medical emergencies.
“By providing the best possible care with cutting-edge technology, it will significantly improve survival rates and reduce the incidence of long-term disability for victims of unfortunate traumatic events,” he stated.
The accomplished entrepreneur explained that giving back is a clear command from the Almighty God, adding that “true prosperity is not measured by the wealth we accumulate, but by how we use it to uplift others, alleviate suffering, and pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come.”
While pointing out that the University’s Teaching Hospital holds a cherished place in his heart, the donor recalled how he proudly donated a modern Audio-Visual Centre in celebration of his 50th birthday on April 4, 1995.
He added, “Seeing the remarkable way the hospital has effectively utilised and maintained the Audio-Visual Centre, a desire was sparked within me to explore how I could further contribute to the health and well-being of our community through this vital institution. After seeking guidance, I learnt that one of the most pressing needs of the hospital is a fully equipped trauma centre. Without hesitation, I recognised it as another meaningful opportunity to fulfil Allah’s call to give and serve.”
Dr. Adegunwa enjoined well-meaning Nigerians to continue “to strive for a future where compassion guides our actions and where giving back becomes a cornerstone of our individual and collective journey. With hearts open and hands ready to serve, we can create a world that uplifts and empowers all.”
It will be recalled that during his 79th birthday held last year, Dr. Adegunwa handed over a newly rehabilitated 300-seater lecture theatre to OOU, Ago-Iwoye. Named “Adebola Adegunwa Lecture Theatre,” the renovated edifice was actually a donation earlier made to the University about 26 years ago when the donor marked his 53rd birthday. He said he embarked on the rehabilitation of the lecture theatre as part of his continuous corporate social responsibility projects across the country.
He expressed satisfaction with the strides of the University Management in repositioning the institution for academic excellence and giving the required attention to its infrastructural needs while assuring of his commitment to enhancing the capacity of the University to provide conducive atmosphere for teaching and learning.
In his address, the Vice President said the facility was a critical addition to Nigeria’s emergency care infrastructure. He stated that the initiative was a model of private sector contribution to public health.
Shettima commended the donor for his gift to humanity, urging more philanthropists and corporate organisations to “rise beyond personal achievements and invest in nation-building.”
“This centre is more than a birthday gift; it is a gift to humanity. It is a lifeline—a sanctuary where the wounded can find healing, and where families in despair can find hope,” he stated.
The Vice President added, “Our historical struggles to fix the healthcare system must be undertaken collectively through synergy between the public and private sectors. We are a nation of immense promise, but also of immense problems. That is why the government alone cannot shoulder these problems.”
“We need more private sector players, philanthropists, foundations and professionals to take a cue from what Otunba Adegunwa has done to rise beyond personal achievements and involve themselves in national development.”
Speaking earlier, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, who is also the Visitor to Olabisi Onabanjo University, applauded the philanthropic initiative of Dr. Adegunwa, noting that he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the healthcare system of the state.
The Governor described the donation as a landmark contribution to Ogun State’s healthcare system and a legacy that will save lives for generations. “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them. Asiwaju Adegunwa’s unwavering commitment to community development and healthcare advancement is worthy of celebration and emulation,” he stated.
Reacting to the donation, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman, Governing Council of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Prof. Toyin Ashiru OON, expressed gratitude to Dr. Adegunwa for his generous gesture, saying it embodied his commitment to improving healthcare in the society. He acknowledged the donor’s previous contributions to the institution, noting that such support demonstrated his long-standing commitment to enhancing education in the country.
Similarly, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, thanked the donor for his trust in the institution and restated the readiness of the University Management for continued collaboration in improving healthcare outcomes.
In attendance at the commissioning ceremony were the Principal Officers of the University as well as serving and former political functionaries, traditional rulers and eminent personalities.
