In celebration of his 70th birthday, renowned chartered accountant Alhaji Lateef Bakare commissioned a newly constructed facility at the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre, a unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), on July 4, 2025.
The new building comprises a crèche for children, a tuck shop, and restroom facilities for both patients and staff. It is a multipurpose addition that enhances the functionality and comfort of the centre, underscoring Bakare’s commitment to community development.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the donor’s generosity. He lauded Alhaji Bakare’s longstanding philanthropic spirit and called on other well-meaning individuals to emulate his example. Prof. Okeniyi assured that the hospital would ensure the proper maintenance of the building and its equipment, adding that the facility would be put to effective use in the service of humanity.
In his remarks, Alhaji Bakare offered thanks to Almighty Allah for granting him the resources and opportunity to give back. He reflected on the establishment of the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre, which was made possible through the collective donations of Ijesa indigenes. He praised the community’s unity and generosity and highlighted the use of a robotic analyser (donated by another prominent indigene), which has significantly enhanced the quality of healthcare services at the centre.
The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, also attended the event. In his address, the monarch commended the developmental strides witnessed in Ijesaland both prior to and during his reign. He acknowledged the vital role played by government support and the tireless efforts of local stakeholders. Oba Haastrup congratulated Alhaji Bakare on his milestone birthday and prayed for continued blessings upon him and other philanthropists working to uplift the town.
Dignitaries, including members of the OAUTHC top management, former Osun State Governor Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, traditional chiefs, Muslim clerics and numerous Ijesa indigenes, well attended the commissioning ceremony.
