By Funsho Arogundade
At 88, some would have thought billionaire tycoon Sir Kessington Adebukunola Adebutu would be tired of investing. For over six decades, the Iperu-Remo, Ogun State-born billionaire has made a name for himself in lotto, agriculture, manufacturing, real estate, construction, hospitality, and recently, banking. Not done yet, the businessman is set to taste the nectar of healthcare now. With the desire to bring succour to Nigerians needing advanced medical care, the philanthropist, who is fondly called Baba Ijebu, has extended his business interests to the health sector.
Barely three years after he commissioned a Research Centre at the University of Lagos for the advancement of scientific theories, concepts and ideas, Adebutu has invested billions of his wealth into the establishment of a multi-speciality medical centre designed to end medical tourism and broaden access to advanced medical diagnosis in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole.
Last week, Nigeria’s first lady was the special guest of the octogenarian billionaire as he unveiled the ultra-modern health facility named DIAMED Centre, coined from the words Diagnostic and Medical. Located in the Oniru area of Victoria Island, Lagos, the hospital is equipped with the latest high-end hospital equipment including the first-ever 3D mammogram machine in Nigeria; drugs for diagnosing ailments and treatment within the highest medical standards.
Prior to its unveiling, a dedication service was held within the premises of the hospital. The service was officiated by clerics from Methodist Church, Nigeria led by the Prelate Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Oliver Aba; the Bishop of Lagos North, Right Rev. Gboyega Ohu; Conference Editor, Methodist Church Nigeria, Very Rev. Olusola Makindipe; Chaplain to the Prelate and Very Rev. Ime Ekpeyong.
One of Adebutu’s children, Dr. Abiola Olorede, has already been appointed the Chief Medical Director of the international hospital.