Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday commissioned a newly constructed 35-bed Mother and Child Maternity Complex donated by former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), describing the project as a major contribution to healthcare development and humanitarian service in the state.
The state-of-the-art facility, located within the State Specialist Hospital in Ikere Ekiti, was officially handed over to the Ekiti State Government to strengthen maternal and child healthcare services and improve access to quality medical care for residents.
Several prominent dignitaries attended the inauguration ceremony, including Ekiti Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye; former Ekiti State Governor, Segun Oni; former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande; former Ondo State Governor, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; members of the National Assembly; and top government officials.
Speaking during the event, Governor Oyebanji praised Olanipekun for his continued commitment to the growth and development of Ekiti State, noting that the donation reflects his strong attachment to his roots and dedication to improving the wellbeing of the people.
The governor described the maternity complex as a landmark intervention in the health sector and urged other successful indigenes of the state to contribute to community development, stressing that government alone cannot meet all societal needs.
He said the project serves as an example of impactful philanthropy capable of inspiring collective efforts toward the advancement of the state.
Governor Oyebanji also assured residents that his administration would continue to encourage partnerships and private sector involvement in projects that support healthcare delivery and overall development.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who also spoke at the event, described the donation as an extraordinary act of generosity and a life-saving intervention for mothers and children.
According to him, the project demonstrates the importance of private individuals supporting government efforts in building critical infrastructure that directly benefits citizens.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Dr Mohammed Ali Pate, represented at the event by the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti, commended Olanipekun for his humanitarian contributions and commitment to improving healthcare services.
He noted that investments in maternal and child healthcare remain essential to national development and praised the donor for consistently supporting education, health, and community empowerment initiatives across Nigeria.
Former Osun State Governor, Chief Bisi Akande, described Olanipekun as a patriot whose achievements are measured not only by professional success but also by his impact on society and dedication to community service.
Akande said true greatness lies in improving the lives of others and commended the legal icon for using his resources to support humanity and community advancement.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, also offered prayers for the donor, describing the maternity complex as a world-class medical facility capable of addressing critical healthcare needs for women and children.
In his remarks, Chief Olanipekun expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for creating an environment that encourages collaboration between government and private individuals in the development of the state.
He explained that the decision to build and donate the facility was driven by the need to reduce preventable maternal and child deaths while expanding access to quality healthcare services for vulnerable mothers and newborns in Ekiti State.
