August 3, 2025
Health

Diaspora Doctors Set to Invest Over $100m in World-Class Healthcare Hub in Ogun, Partners Pelican Valley

A major healthcare transformation may soon take root in Ogun State, as a consortium of Nigerian medical professionals based in the United States has begun discussions with a leading real estate developer, Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited, on a groundbreaking $100 million healthcare investment in the Kobape corridor.

The project, which is expected to occupy 100 hectares of land upon full execution, is being promoted by a group of highly accomplished Nigerian doctors in the diaspora. It aims to establish a world-class medical facility that would not only redefine access to quality healthcare in Nigeria but also significantly reduce the reliance on medical tourism among Nigeria’s elite.

The visiting medical team was recently received at the Pelican Ecostay Apartments in Kobape by the Chief Executive Officer of Pelican Valley, Dr. Babatunde Adeyemo. The team expressed their readiness to invest back home and collaborate with visionary stakeholders to create a medical ecosystem rooted in excellence, sustainability, and national development.

Tolu Badejo, a member of the delegation and a practising medical specialist in the United States, explained that the group’s mission stemmed from a strong desire to elevate healthcare delivery in Nigeria to global standards. He noted that Nigeria, despite its vast potential, still lags significantly in health infrastructure, prompting the initiative to create a transformative project that would be developed and managed by Nigerians.

“When discussions about Ogun State began, we envisioned creating something different in the healthcare space. After some research, we found Pelican Valley through an online platform and were impressed by the transparency and vision already being demonstrated. Everyone agrees that the need for accessible and quality healthcare is critical in Nigeria. Our people travel abroad every year seeking medical help—services that should be available locally,” he said.

Badejo stressed that Nigeria is not lacking in either human or financial capital to build a thriving health system. “This is 2025. Why should a nation with our calibre of professionals and potential still struggle to provide world-class healthcare? The expertise exists—just look at how many Nigerian specialists are running critical departments in hospitals abroad. Our goal is to reverse that trend and build something credible here that competes with global benchmarks,” he added.

Another member of the delegation, Dr. Ehri Badejo, emphasized the brilliance and capability of Nigerians abroad, particularly in the medical field. She lamented the talent drain the country continues to suffer but expressed hope that their efforts would help establish a reliable and self-sufficient healthcare system.

“Nigerians are incredibly talented. But what we often see is individual success rather than collective progress. Imagine bringing all this brilliance together in a sustainable healthcare system. We are proposing a $100 million investment as a starting point. With inbred nurses, physicians, and the necessary infrastructure, we can create a system that thrives and serves our people—ending the cycle of medical tourism,” she said.

Dr. Babatunde Adeyemo, whose firm is facilitating the project through its strategic real estate developments, expressed optimism about the proposed collaboration. He revealed that he plans to present the project to the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, whom he described as an advocate for diaspora-led development initiatives.

Adeyemo reflected on his own journey as a developer, stating that Pelican Valley was birthed from humble beginnings in a location most real estate players avoided. Starting with less than N2.5 million, he attributed the firm’s success to financial discipline, honesty, patience, and a relentless focus on adding value.

“Pelican Valley grew from a place that many considered too difficult to navigate. But I stayed consistent. There’s no magic—just integrity and prudence. And it’s that same ethos we’re bringing into this healthcare initiative,” he said.

With early-stage discussions underway and land already earmarked, the proposed healthcare city is expected to serve as a major milestone in Nigeria’s effort to reclaim excellence in the medical sector and inspire confidence in homegrown solutions. The project aligns with broader calls for investment-driven development and diaspora engagement in critical sectors of the Nigerian economy