Korede Abdullah in
In a significant push to transform Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Monday commissioned the new 50-bed Avon Medical Facility in Surulere, Lagos.
The ultra-modern hospital, built by the Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited, Dr. Awele Elumelu, and wife of Heirs Holdings Chairman Tony Elumelu is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment units, including a CT scan machine, emergency units, ICU, and operating theatres.
“This hospital… speaks to a bold and clear vision: to provide affordable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare services to Nigerians locally and without compromise,” said Pate, represented by LUTH CMD, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the project as a model for effective public-private collaboration, emphasizing that the government alone cannot shoulder the burden of healthcare provision.
“Health institutions and health facilities everywhere are not provided by one arm of society alone,” he stated.
Adding that “The government certainly cannot provide everything for everyone but must create an enabling environment for private partners to make those decisions and channel their investments into the health profession.”
He reiterated his administration’s support for initiatives that reduce medical tourism and improve access to quality healthcare within the country.
Reflecting on Avon Medical’s journey, Dr. Awele Elumelu recalled its beginnings in 2009 with a single worksite clinic. “The decision was made… to make world-class healthcare accessible and affordable to all. Not just for the wealthy… but for everyone,” she said.
She highlighted the challenges of Africa’s health sector, including brain drain and inadequate infrastructure, stressing that the new facility aims to provide a lasting impact.
“This facility matters—because now, more women will receive maternal care, more children will get timely diagnoses, and more families will access affordable healthcare services they deserve.”, Dr. Elumelu added.
Tony Elumelu also lauded the state government’s support and reaffirmed Heirs Holdings’ commitment to solving Africa’s pressing challenges through sustainable investment.
