Through this initiative, the Ooni aims to emphasize the
paramount importance of prioritizing humanity and preserving life, particularly
by guaranteeing that no patient is deprived of high-quality healthcare due to
financial limitations, especially during emergency situations.
This development is a direct result of His Imperial Majesty’s
substantial involvement and investment in Nigeria’s healthcare sector since
assuming the role of Arole Oduduwa. His commitment was particularly evident
during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, when he assembled a team of
experts and collaborated with renowned medical research institutions, laboratories,
and other organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of Nigerian
citizens.
In a recent press conference, the Ooni discussed the
inspiration behind the healthcare conglomerate. He emphasized that the previous
pandemic highlighted the untapped medical potential of the black community,
particularly within the Oduduwa throne. He believes that these natural
remedies, such as herbs, played a crucial role in safeguarding the community
from the severe challenges faced by developed countries during the pandemic,
when travel for medical care was severely restricted regardless of wealth or status.
“I had to constitute a team of scholars particularly in the
medical profession and veterans in the business/practice of the ancient herbal
and alternative medicine who brainstormed on exploiting the best in our local
herbal medicine, and this led to the discovery of potent solution through which
beneficial products with which we combated and defeated the pandemic were
discovered. I must hail the collaboration with the National Agency for Food and
Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti,
National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRID) and
frontline medical research institutions in the country which brought us this
far.
“I remember developing an initiative, called “Pan African
Foundation for Indigenous Medical Research and Development (PAFIMERD)” in 2020
during the celebration of African Traditional Medicine Day. All these
activities have now snowballed into Equity Health Group; an international
hospital and diagnostic centre with a lot of interlinked arms of medical
solution including drug manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and vaccine production
among others. The best part of it is that this facility will source its ingredients
locally, thereby strengthening the Naira while boosting the country’s
productivity.
“Equity Health Group stands at the forefront of healthcare
innovation, encompassing a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries. Through these
subsidiaries, we endeavor to revolutionize healthcare delivery and promote
well-being globally. At Equity Health Group, we believe in patient-centered
care, innovation and integrity.
“Our watchword is to dignify human life by attending to all
emergencies immediately regardless of the patient’s financial status. We will
work to save lives first and not asking for papers or money from a dying
patient.”
In reference to his involvement, the Ooni disclosed that,
“to the glory of God, I am a co-owner of the company alongside a young and
visionary entrepreneur named Dozy Mmobuosi. We share a common and well-defined
vision of liberating the black race from excessive reliance on the Western
world for medical solutions. By joining forces, we aim to establish a
world-class medical institution and diagnostic center..
“I am pleased to inform you that the company has three
subsidiaries. The first is the Equity Specialist Hospital and Diagnostic
Centre; a comprehensive hospital and diagnostic service that focuses on
advanced medical technology and personalized care. Presently, it is situated in
Lagos State with plans for expansion to other parts of the country and the
United Kingdom. The second arm is the Equity Pharmaceuticals; a company that
will leverage innovative technology to provide quality pharmaceutical products
and services. The last but not the least is the Equity Vaccine Laboratories; an
arm that focuses on research and development of vaccines for global health
security. With this, we aim to pioneer vaccines to tackle pressing global
health challenges and ensure a safer future for all.
“In actualizing the purpose of this outfit, we shall bring
on board our higher institutions of learning particularly the medical arms of
reputable universities including the Ojaja University, Eyenkorin, Ilorin, Kwara
State which I own. This will cement the “town and gown” relationship, thereby
enhancing the productivity of our graduates.”
The Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, Ooni Ogunwusi, emphasized the importance of advancements in healthcare facilities within the country, particularly with the involvement of the private sector such as the Equity Health Group. He highlighted that these improvements would provide a convenient option for Nigerians, potentially eliminating the need for foreign medical tourism.
“Aside from the provision of unequaled medical services for
Nigerians in line with best global practice, Equity Health Group is structured
to actively participate in global medical research especially in the area of
vaccine production/development to safeguard global health. As the giant of
Africa, Nigeria should be at the forefront in vital global medical
conversations like the development of vaccines against malaria disease upon
which we cannot afford to be dependent on the Western world.
“While I am neither a medical doctor nor a pharmacist, I
passionately believe that we have what it takes to change the narrative of over
dependence on medical tourism to the developed countries. Beyond the area of
research, Africa and indeed Nigeria can be a major powerbroker in the global
pharmaceutical and medical industry.” The Ooni said.