Sanwo-Olu Commissions UNILAG Medical Research Centre to Advance Health Innovation

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially inaugurated the Sir Kensington Adebutu Medical Research Centre at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), describing it as a significant step toward enhancing health outcomes in Nigeria and globally.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony on Monday in Lagos, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the project as a visionary “intellectual investment” and a true example of philanthropy aimed at developing human capital.

He noted that the facility would serve as an international hub for cutting-edge research in medicine and related fields, benefiting not only the university but the wider healthcare and academic communities.

“This is a science research centre within the Faculty of Medicine—a place where intellectuals can gather to conduct research that addresses today’s challenges and prepares us for the future,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He added that the centre would help boost capacity in areas such as artificial intelligence and global health research. “This initiative will not only have local relevance but will also contribute significantly to global medical advancements,” he noted.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also urged other wealthy individuals to follow the example of Sir Kensington Adebutu, the project’s donor, by investing in projects that leave lasting legacies. “Government alone cannot do it all. Philanthropy is a noble path to giving back in ways that outlive us,” he said.

Federal Government to Establish National Research Trust Fund

Also speaking at the event, Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, commended the project, saying it aligns with national efforts to foster innovation and elevate Nigeria's standing in global research.

Alausa revealed plans to establish a National Research Trust Fund, aimed at providing sustainable, competitive funding for research across the country.

“Although we are awaiting final presidential approval, the president has verbally endorsed the initiative. The fund is expected to inject billions of naira into Nigeria’s research landscape, helping to translate academic work from the lab to real-world solutions,” he said.

He added that strengthening the nation’s health research capacity directly impacts human capital development, which is essential for national progress.

CMUL Celebrates Legacy of Philanthropy

Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Ademola Oremosu, recounted how the idea for the research centre was born during the MESILAG Alumni ‘High Table Dinner’ in 2019, where Sir Kensington Adebutu made his generous pledge.

He praised Adebutu’s contribution, noting that the inauguration also coincides with the philanthropist’s 90th birthday.

“This research centre represents a promise to our students, researchers, and faculty—a space where their ideas will be supported, their inquiries nurtured, and their discoveries empowered,” Oremosu said. “Here, science meets service, and knowledge becomes healing.”

Adebutu: Philanthropy Inspired by Grace

In his remarks, Sir Kensington Adebutu attributed his journey to divine grace and reaffirmed his lifelong commitment to humanitarian service.

He expressed hope that the research facility would become a beacon of innovation and human development, contributing meaningfully to the health and well-being of communities.

“It is my prayer that this centre becomes a catalyst for breakthroughs in health and a symbol of service to humanity,” Adebutu said.

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