In a momentous ceremony that underscores the power of alumni-driven philanthropy, a group of alumni who graduated from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, specifically within the 1980s and formally registered as Brothers4L…ife (BFL), has officially handed over the newly renovated Emergency Ward of the University Health Centre to the University management. The project, dubbed “A Legacy of Impact,” marks ten years of committed service and support by the Brothers4L…ife alumni group to their alma mater.

Dignitaries, friends, and members of the University community gathered at the University Health Centre to witness the symbolic handover. Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Akinade Olatunji, the Acting Director, Medical and Health Services of the University, commended Brothers4L…ife and its visionary leadership for the philanthropic drive and expressed gratitude for the new facility. “Our staff and patients will greatly benefit from this modernization. We thank Brothers4L…ife for recognizing the importance of healthcare in sustaining academic excellence.”

Dr. Olatunji, on behalf of the entire Health Centre management, further extended profound appreciation to the BFL for its unwavering commitment to the growth of the University. “The successful renovation and handover of the newly revamped Emergency Ward is a testament to BFL’s dedication to fostering a culture of excellence and care within the university community.”

In a virtual address from the Diaspora, Mr. Michael Oluremi Jetawo, the President of BFL, emphasized the collective commitment of the group. “For us, this project is more than brick and mortar—it’s about creating a lasting legacy of impact. We are immensely proud to mark a decade of giving back to the university that molded us into who we are today.” He also urged other alumni bodies and well-meaning individuals to follow suit in supporting educational institutions. “The real measure of an alma mater’s success is in the thriving community of its graduates who continuously give back.”

Mr. Jetawo, while noting that the event was all about celebrating ten years of brotherhood and legacy of impact, further challenged Great Ife alumni worldwide to reflect on their personal journeys and remember the institution that nurtured their aspirations. “We all carry a piece of Great Ife’s legacy in our hearts,” he stated. “Now is the time to translate that gratitude into action. By investing in our University’s future, we honor our shared past and open the doors of opportunity for the next generation of scholars, innovators, and leaders.

Dr. Engr. Atilade Olufemi Osoniyi, the Chair of the Board of Trustees of the BFL, in a separate virtual address, presented from the Diaspora, also
congratulated all members of the group, particularly the initiator, Olola Ayo Ajayi, who founded the group, precisely on February 20, 2015 on the attainments of the group in ten years.

He stressed the transformative power of a united alumni community. “It is not just about what we give; it is about what we build,” he noted. “When we pool our resources—be it time, talent, or treasure—we create an unstoppable force that can lift our alma mater to new heights. This renovated Emergency Ward stands as a living example of how collective commitment can significantly impact the lives of current students and the broader community.”

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, in his remarks at the event, lauded Brothers4L…ife for their unwavering dedication to the development of the institution. “Today, we celebrate not just the renovation of a critical health facility but the spirit of selfless service that binds our alumni to the growth of OAU. Brothers4L…ife has shown that the true measure of education is the ability to give back and uplift the society that shaped us.”

Highlighting the significance of the renovated Emergency Ward, Professor Bamire noted that the upgraded facilities would significantly enhance healthcare delivery for staff, students and the surrounding community. “We are confident that this newly renovated ward will bolster our capacity to provide top-notch emergency medical care. It stands as a testament to the far-reaching influence of our alumni and their passion for excellence.”

Two Brothers4L…ife- Alaga Jubril Adekola and Sir Professor Charles Ukeje KJW, a distinguished faculty member in the University’s Department of International Relations, represented the group at the grand handover event. Speaking, Sir Professor Ukeje KJW thanked the University for always being receptive and for its unwavering commitment to fostering strong ties with its alumni.

While lauding the contributions of the BFL group as a steadfast supporter of the University’s Health Centre, he made a passionate call for all alumni to rally around their alma mater, stressing his strong conviction that true progress is only achievable through collaborative efforts—be it financial support, volunteer service, or knowledge transfer. “By coming together in this spirit of unity and benevolence, alumni can help secure OAU’s legacy as a world-class institution and ensure that future generations benefit from the same enriching experiences we hold dear today,” Sir Professor Ukeje KJW stated.

Over the years, the BFL group has demonstrated remarkable dedication to the OAU Health Centre, donating medical supplies and equipment worth millions of naira. Their contributions include essential medicines, three electric beds with patient monitors, four air conditioners, patient screens, as well as the refurbishment of toilets and the repair of entrance doors. These interventions have significantly improved the facility’s capacity to provide quality healthcare services to staff, students, and the host community.

With such continued support, alumni can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of OAU, ensuring that upcoming generations benefit from the same academic excellence and nurturing environment that defined their own experiences at the University.