Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the family of legal luminary, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, for their commitment to improving lives through meaningful philanthropic initiatives. The governor gave the commendation on Saturday while inaugurating the newly completed Wole Olanipekun Physiotherapy Centre (WOPC) at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).
The state-of-the-art centre, widely described as the most advanced physiotherapy facility in Nigeria and West Africa, was built by Bode Olanipekun, SAN, and his wife, Tolu, in honour of Chief Olanipekun. What began in February 2024 as a modest idea has now blossomed into a major medical asset, equipped with cutting-edge therapy tools, ergonomic office fittings, comprehensive fire safety infrastructure, and a dual power supply system.
Speaking at the commissioning, Governor Sanwo-Olu described the project as more than just a structure. “This is a powerful statement,” he said. “Bode and Tolu have thrown a challenge to us all—to use whatever position we occupy to leave a lasting impact. As an alumnus of the University of Lagos, this has set a pace I now feel compelled to match.”
An emotional Chief Olanipekun, visibly moved by the gesture, revealed that he had no prior knowledge of the project. “I was never informed. I didn’t fund it. I wasn’t even hinted,” he said. “About nine days ago, Bode called and said, ‘Chief, I have a surprise for you.’ I joked, asking if he wanted to give me money because I needed some at the time. He said, ‘No, I built something small for you at LUTH and I want you there.’ I imagined a modest structure, maybe a bungalow. But when I saw the plans, I was overwhelmed. I shed tears—not of sorrow, but deep appreciation.”
Reflecting further, the respected legal icon said, “I took good care of my parents while they were alive, and I managed to erect some memorials for them posthumously. But experiencing this kind of honour in my lifetime, from my own child, is profoundly fulfilling.”
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, described the project as a transformative gift. “This is a game-changer,” she declared. “You haven’t just built a physiotherapy centre; you’ve etched your name into the university’s history. And yes, I am a woman leading one of the country’s top universities—the future is truly balanced.”
She also noted that the university is currently expanding its capacity and improving infrastructure in alignment with federal education goals, and promised that the facility would be put to the best use.
In his remarks, Bode Olanipekun (SAN) disclosed that the idea was originally conceived by his wife, Tolu. “Truth be told, I stole the idea from her,” he said with a smile. “She found the contractor, sourced the equipment, and ensured everything—from structure to finishing—met her high standards. Living with Tolu has sharpened my eye for detail. Now, I know when a line isn’t straight.”
He also appreciated Governor Sanwo-Olu for his support. “When I mentioned the commissioning to him, he simply said, ‘Pick any day and I’ll be there.’ No protocol. No paperwork. Just genuine encouragement.”
Earlier in his welcome address, LUTH Chief Medical Director, Professor W.L. Adeyemo, praised the initiative as a strategic addition to the hospital’s vision of becoming a truly modern medical institution. “We were approached by Bode and Tolu nearly two years ago. We never imagined it would be this expansive and this sophisticated. Their insistence on quality may have extended the timeline, but the outcome has exceeded every expectation.”
The CMD noted that the three-storey centre features 28 treatment cubicles, hydrotherapy pool, adult and pediatric gyms, VIP treatment suites, staff and intern lounges, a 60-seat seminar room, solar backup power (15kVA inverter), and comprehensive fire safety systems.
Architect Jimi Adetona, who led the project design and construction, described the building as a “modern marvel,” adding that the structure was not just a medical facility but a lasting symbol of visionary philanthropy.
“This isn’t just bricks and mortar. This is a statement of purpose, a demonstration of what is possible when passion meets precision,” Adetona remarked.
