Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has inaugurated the Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Research Centre at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) College of Medicine, Idi-Araba, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to advancing medical research and innovation.
The newly commissioned facility, donated by renowned philanthropist and businessman, Sir Kesington Adebutu, is built to serve as a centre for groundbreaking discoveries, medical excellence, and collaboration among researchers and students.
Speaking during the commissioning, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the research centre as a symbol of shared vision and dedication to creating a healthier, knowledge-driven society. He praised Adebutu’s lifelong devotion to education and healthcare, calling his contribution a remarkable act of generosity that reflects the true spirit of public-private partnership.
According to the governor, the project is not just an addition to the university’s infrastructure but a major investment in the future of healthcare and innovation in Nigeria. He expressed confidence that the research centre will nurture curiosity, encourage groundbreaking ideas, and inspire innovations that address real-life health challenges affecting Lagos and the nation.
Sanwo-Olu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance learning and healthcare delivery through partnerships with the private sector and academic institutions. He emphasized that collaborations like this are vital to building a sustainable healthcare system and achieving lasting development outcomes for Lagos residents.
In his words, “When government, academia, and the private sector come together, the result is long-term progress that benefits everyone. This facility is proof that shared vision and commitment can lead to transformative change.”
Sir Kesington Adebutu, founder of the Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Foundation and Chairman of Premier Lotto Limited, popularly known as Baba Ijebu, has earned national recognition for his consistent philanthropy in education, health, and community development. Through his foundation, he has funded numerous projects across Nigerian universities, including libraries, hostels, and media resource centres that continue to benefit thousands of students.
In 2024, Adebutu financed the construction of a state-of-the-art Media Resource Centre at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ) in Lagos, further cementing his legacy as one of Nigeria’s most impactful private donors to education and research.
The new Kesington Adebukunola Adebutu Research Centre at UNILAG’s College of Medicine is expected to enhance the university’s research capacity, improve medical training, and promote the development of homegrown solutions to Nigeria’s healthcare challenges. The project also aligns with Lagos State’s broader investment drive in healthcare infrastructure, which includes upgrades to teaching hospitals and the introduction of innovative medical facilities across the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed optimism that the centre would become a hub of creativity and innovation where young scholars and scientists can transform ideas into discoveries that impact lives. He noted that the commissioning reflects Lagos’ growing reputation as a leader in healthcare and research, adding that the government remains committed to building an environment where innovation thrives and public-private collaboration continues to shape the future.
The atmosphere at the commissioning was filled with optimism and gratitude as dignitaries celebrated Adebutu’s remarkable generosity and the government’s vision for a more innovative and healthier Lagos. The new research centre stands as a testament to what can be achieved when vision, generosity, and collaboration come together for the common good.