Tinubu Commends Adegunwa’s N2bn Trauma Centre, Calls for Greater Public-Private Healthcare Partnership

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday lauded the exceptional contribution of Alhaji Sulaiman Adegunwa, a renowned industrialist and philanthropist, for his investment in improving the lives of Nigerians through his philanthropic efforts. Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President underscored the importance of private-public sector collaboration in advancing healthcare delivery in Nigeria. This came as the President inaugurated the over N2 billion Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Foundation Trauma Centre at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Sagamu, Ogun State, to commemorate Adegunwa’s 80th birthday.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the former Governor of Ogun State and current Senator for Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel; Senator Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central; Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziak Salako; and the Akarigbo of Remo land, Oba Babatunde Ajayi. Tinubu praised Adegunwa, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods, for his visionary leadership and dedication to using his resources for the betterment of humanity, emphasizing that his efforts serve as a model for how private sector engagement can enhance public healthcare initiatives.

In his address, Tinubu emphasized that the trauma centre is more than just a birthday gift—it is a significant legacy that demonstrates the true measure of success. “It is a gift to humanity, a legacy that affirms that the worth of life is not measured in wealth amassed but in lives touched, healed, and preserved,” he stated. The President further noted that the centre would provide crucial emergency healthcare services at a time when the federal government is focused on repositioning the country’s healthcare system to ensure universal access to quality services.

The President highlighted the centrality of citizens’ well-being to the nation’s broader democratic goals, stating that meaningful progress cannot be achieved without a strong health infrastructure. He pointed out that the Federal Government, through initiatives like the creation of over 8,800 new primary healthcare centres and a national health insurance policy, is working to ensure that no one is left behind in accessing quality healthcare.

Tinubu also called for more collaboration between the private and public sectors to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system. He stressed that the development of the health sector cannot rest solely on the shoulders of the government, urging more philanthropists and private sector players to join the cause. “Our historical struggle to develop our health sector must be undertaken through synergy between the private and public sector,” he said.

The President also spoke about the significance of the trauma centre, noting that in a country facing rapid urbanization, motorization, and industrial growth, such facilities are no longer optional but essential. “This centre is a lifeline, a symbol of preparedness for a nation that cares. It is a sanctuary where the wounded can find healing, help, and hope,” Tinubu remarked.

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State also lauded Adegunwa for his generosity, acknowledging that the trauma centre was part of efforts to revive the ailing hospital that had suffered neglect in the past. Governor Abiodun recounted how his administration had declared a state of emergency on the hospital when he took office in 2019, and how the centre was a product of his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure in the state. The Governor further explained that the centre, strategically located along major highways like the Lagos-Ibadan expressway and Sagamu-Ijebu-Ode-Benin expressway, would be crucial in providing timely medical care to accident victims.

Alhaji Adegunwa, in his brief remarks, explained that the donation was driven by his deep belief in making a positive impact on the world around him. He encouraged other Nigerians to prioritize humanitarian efforts and contribute to the development of their communities.

Dr. Tomi Coker, the Commissioner for Health in Ogun State, noted that the state records a high number of accidents, with about 40% of the country’s road accidents occurring within its borders. The trauma centre, he said, would be instrumental in saving lives by providing rapid and effective emergency care.

This timely intervention comes at a crucial moment when access to emergency healthcare is becoming increasingly important in Nigeria’s rapidly growing population and infrastructure development. The Sulaiman Adebola Adegunwa Foundation Trauma Centre stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between the private sector, philanthropists, and government in improving the nation’s healthcare landscape.