Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday inaugurated the Sir Kensington Adebutu Medical Research Centre at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), hailing it as a critical investment in Nigeria’s health and education sectors.
Describing the centre as “an intellectual investment in human capital development”, Sanwo-Olu commended the donor, Sir Kensington Adebutu, for his lifelong commitment to philanthropy, urging other well-meaning Nigerians to emulate such legacy-building contributions.
“This centre is not just a building, it is a global hub for medical research. It will serve generations and help unlock solutions to health challenges in Nigeria and beyond,” the governor said.
The facility, situated within the university’s faculty of medicine, is expected to promote high-level research in medicine, biotechnology, and artificial intelligence, positioning Nigeria as a contributor to global health innovations.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the facility would enhance the capacity of researchers and academic institutions to secure grants, carry out cutting-edge studies, and develop practical solutions to pressing health issues.
“Research is an area that needs stronger investment. Government alone can’t fund it. Initiatives like this are the future,” he added.
Also speaking at the inauguration, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, said the centre aligns with national education reforms geared toward innovation and development.
He disclosed that the Federal Government was working on establishing a National Research Trust Fund, aimed at supporting Nigerian researchers with accessible and competitive grant opportunities.
“Though awaiting final approval, the President has verbally endorsed the initiative. The Trust Fund will unlock billions for sustainable research,” Alausa said.
The centre, according to the minister, will facilitate translational and clinical research, crucial to improving healthcare delivery and human capital development.
Professor Ademola Oremosu, Provost of CMUL, said the project was conceived in 2019 during an alumni event, where Sir Adebutu pledged his support.
He noted that its completion coinciding with the donor’s 90th birthday, marked a significant milestone for the institution.
“This centre is a promise kept to our students and researchers—a place where ideas will be nurtured, discoveries empowered, and science meets service,” Oremosu said.
In his remarks, Sir Kensington Adebutu, the philanthropist behind the project, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to give back to society.
“It is by God’s grace that I’m here today. My hope is that this facility becomes a wellspring of innovation that improves lives,” the nonagenarian said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting education, research, and humanitarian causes as a means of leaving a lasting legacy.
