The Balogun of Ijebu Igbo Kingdom and former Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Babatunde Ipaye, has narrated how a humble ₦9,000 support he received at the early stage of establishing his hospital grew into a multi-million naira success story within a few months.

Ipaye made the disclosure on Thursday during his birthday celebration and annual scholarship presentation held at Olokine Comprehensive High School, where he also motivated students and scholarship beneficiaries with lessons on perseverance, faith and dedication.

Speaking at the event, the World Bank (WB) Consultant cum World Health Organization (WHO) Consultant recounted that while seeking financial support to establish Idunnu Hospital years ago, several prominent personalities turned him down, with only Chief Samuel Olugbemi Ogungbe offering him assistance.

According to him, the ₦9,000 support eventually became the foundation upon which the medical facility blossomed into a thriving enterprise through hard work, consistency and divine favour.

Ipaye also highlighted the achievements of the Ajoke Ipaye Foundation, noting that since its establishment in 2010, the foundation has produced several accomplished professionals, including a Professor of English, lawyers, accountants and other distinguished graduates across different fields.

He charged the 2026 scholarship beneficiaries to remain focused, disciplined and intentional about their academic pursuits, stressing that education remains a powerful tool for societal transformation.

In their separate remarks, the Olokine of Ojowo Kingdom, Oba Rasheed Banjo; Prof Mojisola Ogungbe; Hon Wale Adedayo; and Hon Mojeed Oladele Ekelojumati PhD, described the celebrant as a compassionate leader, builder of men and an outstanding philanthropist whose contributions to community development and the enthronement of the Orimolusi of Ijebu Igbo remain remarkable.

Representing the Ogun State Commissioner for Education, the Zonal Education Officer for Ijebu North, Mr. Liadi, described Ipaye’s scholarship initiative as one of the most impactful educational support schemes he had witnessed in his career. He encouraged beneficiaries to justify the confidence reposed in them by excelling academically.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Alowolodu Ibrahim expressed appreciation to the foundation for coming to their aid at a critical time, promising that beneficiaries would make the organisation proud through academic excellence and good character.

Other beneficiaries honoured at the event included Kehinde Esther, Akeso Zainab, Sikiru Abolaji and Nafiu Taiwo.

Dignitaries present at the occasion included Otunba Olaide Oshifeso, Hon Ipaye Olatunbosun, Hon Kayode Alowosile, Hon Korede Oshifeso, Pastor Jayesimi, Prof. Oshibamowo, Prince Adedapo David, Hon Seun Oladipupo, Hon Saheed Banjo, Hon Odutayo Abiodun, Chief Bisi Ogundeko, Prince Tola Adebajo and several other notable personalities