Over 500 residents of Ilara-Mokin and neighbouring communities received free medical care as Elizade University commemorated the 88th birthday of its Founder, renowned industrialist and philanthropist, Chief Michael Ade. Ojo, OON, with a large-scale medical outreach designed to improve the health and wellbeing of the people.
The humanitarian initiative, held at the Palace Town Hall in Ilara-Mokin, underscored Chief Ade. Ojo’s enduring legacy of compassion, service to humanity, and commitment to community development.
It brought together medical professionals, university administrators, traditional leaders, community members, and beneficiaries in a celebration that combined healthcare delivery with heartfelt appreciation for a man whose impact has transformed lives across generations.
Speaking at the event, the Vice-Chancellor of Elizade University, Prof Philip Oguntunde, described the outreach as one of the most fitting ways to honour the Founder’s remarkable life and contributions to society.
He said the programme was not only an expression of gratitude to God for preserving Chief Ade. Ojo’s life but also a practical demonstration of the University’s commitment to one of its core mandates—community service.
“There is no better way to celebrate a great man than by positively impacting the lives of people, alleviating their pains, reducing their burdens, and putting smiles on their faces,” Professor Oguntunde said.
The University’s Registrar, Mr. Omololu Adegbenro, paid glowing tribute to the Founder, describing him as a blessing to Ilara-Mokin and a transformational figure whose philanthropy has elevated the community’s profile within Ondo State and Nigeria.
He highlighted several landmark projects associated with Chief Ade. Ojo’s vision, including the establishment of Elizade University, the world-class Smokin Hills Golf Resort, extensive road infrastructure, scholarships, employment opportunities, and numerous developmental initiatives that have improved the socio-economic fortunes of the community.
His words, “Chief Michael Ade. Ojo’s generosity and commitment to development have made Ilara-Mokin a reference point for progress and excellence.
“We pray that God grants him many more years in sound health, wisdom, and strength,”
Consultant Physician and Chief Medical Director of Elizade University, Dr. Lanre Olatunde, explained that the medical outreach formed part of the activities marking the Founder’s 88th birthday while also serving as a major component of the University’s Corporate Social Responsibility programme.
He noted that the outreach focused on the detection and management of both infectious and non-communicable diseases, stressing the importance of early diagnosis in preventing severe health complications.
He said, “Community health outreach programmes like this enable us to identify diseases at an early stage, provide timely interventions, and educate people on healthy living.
“Preventive healthcare remains one of the most effective tools for building healthier communities.”
Held under the theme, ‘A Legacy, A Vision, A Lasting Impact,’ the outreach provided beneficiaries with free medical consultations, health screenings, counselling services, and other essential healthcare interventions delivered by qualified medical personnel from the University.
The event attracted an overwhelming turnout of residents who thronged the venue to take advantage of the free healthcare services.
For many beneficiaries, it was a rare opportunity to access quality medical attention at no cost.
The occasion’s highlight was the arrival of Chief Michael Ade. Ojo, accompanied by his wife and members of his immediate family.
The Founder was greeted with a thunderous applause and happy birthday songs of jubilation as grateful residents warmly welcomed him to the venue.
In a colourful moment that reflected the deep affection the community holds for him, Chief Ade. Ojo cut his 88th birthday cake amidst cheers and celebrations from beneficiaries, members of staff of Elizade University and well-wishers.
Visibly moved by the gesture, the elder statesman commended the Management and Staff of Elizade University for organising the outreach and reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to initiatives that promote human development and community empowerment.
Chief Ade. Ojo stated that accessible healthcare remains a vital component of societal progress and pledged to continue advancing programmes that improve the quality of life of ordinary citizens.
The outreach once again reinforced Elizade University’s growing reputation as an institution that combines academic excellence with social responsibility and community service; while highlighting the enduring legacy of a Founder whose vision continues to bring hope, health, and development to countless lives.
As residents departed the venue with free medications, medical advice, and renewed hope, the message of the day was unmistakable: At 88, Chief Michael Ade. Ojo’s greatest gift remains his unwavering commitment to humanity.
