In the dynamic landscape of Nigerian healthcare, Dr. Oladipupo Fakoya stands out as a trailblazer in geriatric care. A graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University with dual fellowships in Family Medicine and a Master’s in Public Health, Dr. Fakoya has seamlessly blended academic excellence with an unwavering passion for eldercare. Since becoming a consultant in 2017, he has led transformative initiatives, most notably founding the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre — now the largest of its kind in West Africa. An acclaimed clinician, scholar, and advocate, he continues to shape the future of geriatric medicine in Nigeria, all while enjoying life as a devoted family man, golfer, and philanthropist.
In this exclusive interview with Stephanie Osugo , Dr. Fakoya reflects on his inspiring journey and shares his vision for advancing healthcare for Nigeria’s elderly.

How did you come to be the Physician in Charge at the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre?

Dr. Oladipupo:
During my residency as a family physician at Wesley Guild Hospital, my dissertation focused on geriatric care — particularly on the health and quality of life of the elderly. It was during this period that I became deeply aware of the unique healthcare challenges facing this demographic.

After completing my dissertation, my interest in geriatrics grew even stronger. Thankfully, the department supported my passion and allowed me to start a geriatric clinic at Wesley Guild Hospital in 2017. Over time, the clinic expanded. The Ogendegbe family, in memory of their late mother, generously donated a building within the hospital premises, providing us with a dedicated space for geriatric care. That marked the formal beginning of our journey.

How did this larger centre come to be?

Dr. Oladipupo:
As our patient population increased, it became evident that the geriatric clinic needed to move beyond the general outpatient setting. Around the post-COVID period in 2020, following the completion of the new Oba’s palace, the Ijesa community, under the leadership of Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi, sought to embark on a meaningful legacy project.

They chose to focus on healthcare and consulted Dr. Adegoke, the then physician-in-charge of Wesley Guild Hospital, who invited me to share my vision for eldercare in the region.

At our meeting, I highlighted the blessings of longevity enjoyed by the Ijesa people — they remain resourceful and economically active well into old age. Yet, they also face substantial social and health challenges. I explained that a dedicated geriatric centre would significantly benefit the community by addressing these needs comprehensively.

Did you have any models in mind while conceptualizing the centre?

Dr. Oladipupo:
Yes, certainly. I pointed them towards the Tony Anenih Geriatric Centre at UCH, Ibadan, which was at the time managed by Dr. Adegunsoye and Dr. Olowokere. Community leaders visited the facility, studied its operations, and were inspired by its impact.

Encouraged by this example, Asiwaju Fasuyi led a spirited fundraising campaign. Through the collective efforts of the Ijesa community, they successfully raised one billion Naira to design, equip, and furnish the new centre.

The project was completed, and on March 31, 2022, the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre was officially commissioned. We relocated from Wesley Guild Hospital that same week and immediately commenced clinical services. Since then, awareness and patronage have grown steadily.

Can you tell us more about the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) governing the centre?

Dr. Oladipupo:
Of course. The MOU stipulates that while the Ijesa community financed and fully equipped the centre, staffing and clinical services are provided by the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC). This partnership ensures sustainable, high-quality care for the elderly while maintaining community ownership and pride in the facility.

Dr. Fakoya’s journey is a powerful reminder of what visionary leadership and community collaboration can achieve. As Nigeria’s ageing population continues to grow, the Ijesaland Geriatric Centre stands as a beacon of hope — and a model for future eldercare initiatives across the nation.