The Founder of the Yemi Farounbi Colloquium, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi (OON), has lauded business mogul and philanthropist, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, and her husband, Chief Modupe Alakija, for donating a N34bn state-of-the-art medical research and training hospital to Osun State University.
Farounbi, in a statement , described the donation as a landmark intervention that would significantly strengthen healthcare delivery, medical research and manpower training in Osun State and Nigeria at large.
He said the facility, named The Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital, was a testament to the Alakijas’ vision, generosity and commitment to national development.
According to him, the donation came at a critical time when the country is grappling with inadequate healthcare infrastructure and rising medical challenges.
“In the annals of our nation, there are individuals whose contributions transcend the ordinary. Apostle Folorunso Alakija and Chief Modupe Alakija belong to this rare class,” Farounbi said.
He noted that the N34bn investment was not merely a reflection of wealth, but a profound expression of compassion and patriotism aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians.
The hospital, he said, has a capacity of 250 admission beds and 20 clinical departments, and is equipped to provide comprehensive healthcare services, including maternity and neonatal care, community health services and advanced diagnostic facilities.
Farounbi added that the facility also boasts four modern operating theatres, radiotherapy suites and 16 intensive care units, describing it as a major boost to specialised medical care and emergency response in the state.
“The hospital stands as a citadel of healing where science, compassion and innovation converge to restore hope and save lives,” he said.
He stressed that beyond its physical infrastructure, the hospital would serve as a hub for medical research and training, helping to raise a new generation of highly skilled healthcare professionals and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on foreign medical services.
Farounbi described Apostle Alakija as a symbol of entrepreneurial excellence who has successfully combined business success with social responsibility, adding that her philanthropic legacy would inspire future generations.
“The Alakijas have not just built a hospital; they have ignited a quiet revolution in healthcare delivery and medical education,” he said.
The former diplomat expressed the gratitude of the Yemi Farounbi Colloquium to the donors, saying their gesture exemplified the best of Nigerian values and demonstrated the impact private philanthropy could have on public development.
He urged other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the Alakijas by investing in sectors critical to national growth, particularly healthcare and education.
Farounbi said the hospital would have lasting benefits for Osun State University, the host community and the wider Nigerian society, noting that access to quality healthcare remained a cornerstone of sustainable development.
“As a nation, we must celebrate and encourage acts of selfless service such as this. They remind us that collective progress is possible when compassion and vision guide our actions,” he added.
He expressed confidence that the Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital would flourish and stand as a lasting symbol of hope, healing and national renewal.
