On March 15th, 2025, Ikeja Crystal Lions Club, in partnership with the Tola Olukilede Foundation, commissioned a landmark ₦32 million remodeling project of the Dental Centre at the prominent Orile-Agege General hospital Oke Odo in Lagos. The unveiling was a momentous celebration of service, legacy, and impact, an enduring testimony to the power of collaboration for the betterment of society.
The remodeled dental center was formally commissioned by Lion Tolulope Senbanjo, the District Governor of Lions District 404B2 Nigeria, in an elaborate ceremony held at the hospital’s picturesque conference room. The event culminated in the unveiling of the state-of-the-art dental facility, now fully upgraded and equipped to deliver quality oral health services to the community.
The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including the Guest of Honor, Chief and Chief (Mrs.) Michael Ade-Ojo, the visionary Founder of Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, whose presence added profound significance to the day’s proceedings. Among the hosts were Dr. Mobolaji Olukoya, Commissioner II of the Lagos State Health Service Commission, and the hospital’s dynamic Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sola Pitan, who welcomed guests and dignitaries alongside other senior staff members of the hospital. Also in attendance were Lion Dr. Tola Olukilede, the serving President of Ikeja Crystal Lions Club and Founder of the Tola Olukilede Foundation, the driving force behind the project, Pastor Wunmi Olukilede, his supportive wife, Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, MD/CEO of Toyota Nigeria Limited, a long-standing supporter of the Foundation and a host of Lions Club members, philanthropists, and community stakeholders.
A Timely and Transformational Intervention In a captivating slide presentation, Mr. Sola Pitan walked the audience through the transformation journey of the hospital under his leadership, highlighting how the dental department remained the only unit untouched due to limited resources. He described the intervention by Ikeja Crystal Lions Club and the Tola Olukilede Foundation as a divine and timely rescue, especially since discussions about the dental center were only initiated in November 2024, during the launch of the hospital’s newly equipped children’s ward another project delivered by the Tola Olukilede Foundation. According to Lion Olukilede, the dental center remodeling was not initially on the club’s agenda but evolved into a legacy project adopted by Ikeja Crystal Lions Club. He attributed the project’s realization to the infectious passion and marketing acumen of the hospital’s MD
Mr. Kunle Ade-Ojo, in his remarks, applauded the visionary leadership and philanthropic determination of Dr. Olukilede, citing his ability to deliver high-impact projects within short timelines. He also praised the transformational leadership of the hospital CEO, affirming that the hospital can now compete with any modern hospital in Nigeria. He lauded the Lions Club for its dedication to community development, noting the relevance and sustainability of projects that improve health infrastructure and access for underserved populations.
A Gift to the Community: Why a Modern Dental Center Matters
The commissioning of a fully remodeled and equipped dental center is a significant milestone for the host community. Access to quality dental care remains a critical component of public health, often neglected in many developing regions. Oral health affects general well-being, productivity, and even academic performance in children. This initiative is in direct alignment with the Lions Clubs International’s global mission to meet the needs of communities through impactful humanitarian service. By bridging the gap in dental healthcare, Ikeja Crystal Lions Club and the Tola Olukilede Foundation have laid a foundation for:
Early detection and treatment of dental diseases
Improved oral hygiene education
Better health outcomes for low-income families and children
Increased confidence and wellness among beneficiaries
Expanding the Impact: Hunger Relief Outreach
In addition to the commissioning ceremony, the Ikeja Crystal Lions Club also carried out a Hunger Relief Project on the same day, demonstrating the multidimensional approach of Lions to service. Over 300 food packs were distributed to vulnerable members of the community, underscoring the club’s commitment to eradicating hunger and promoting well-being in line with the Lions Global Causes.
The Ikeja Crystal Legacy Project stands as a shining example of purposeful leadership, collaborative service, and sustainable impact. Through this project, the Club, in partnership with the Tola Olukilede Foundation, has reaffirmed the core values of Lions Clubs International making a mark in the society.
As we look to the future, this remodeled dental center will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and healing for generations to come.
