By Professor John A.O. Okeniyi
Chief Medical Director, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC),
Ile-Ife
1st October 2025
Dear Esteemed Colleagues, Valued Clients, and Cherished Members of Our Host Communities,
Today, as our great nation marks 65 years of independence, we at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, stand proud in celebration—not only of Nigeria’s enduring journey, but of our own golden jubilee. Fifty years of service, fifty years of impact, and fifty years of unwavering dedication to excellence in healthcare, training, and research. Since our founding in 1975, OAUTHC has remained steadfast in its vision: to be a leading centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, medical education, and research across Africa. Our mission—to provide quality, comprehensive, and compassionate care while advancing knowledge for the benefit of humanity—has guided every step of our journey. These values have shaped our legacy and continue to define our future.
This dual celebration is deeply resonant with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which champions unity, progress, and transformative development. As we honour Nigeria’s independence, let’s reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier, more equitable society—one where innovation, accessibility, and empathy are the cornerstones of care. To our exceptional staff: your resilience, professionalism, and compassion are the lifeblood of this institution. You have carried the torch of service with dignity and purpose, and your daily sacrifices reflect the very spirit of patriotism that Independence Day embodies. Let us continue to strive—together—to raise the bar and aspire to deliver world-class care to every patient who walks through our doors.
To our valued clients: your trust inspires us. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to serve you. We pledge to continually improve, to listen, and to respond with empathy and expertise. Your well-being remains at the heart of all we do. To our host communities—especially the people of Ile-Ife, Ilesa and Imesi-Ile—we extend our deepest gratitude. You have embraced OAUTHC as your own, and we remain committed to contributing meaningfully to your socio-economic development through healthcare, education, and community engagement.
As we reflect on Nigeria’s journey since 1960—a story of resilience, unity, and hope—we draw strength from our shared history and look forward with optimism. The next fifty years hold immense promise. With your continued support, OAUTHC will soar to even greater heights, remaining a beacon of healing, learning, and progress. Let us celebrate not only what we have achieved, but what we are yet to become. Here’s to a future filled with hope, health, and harmony.
Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!
Happy 50th Anniversary, OAUTHC!
Thank you.
