A philanthropist and founder of the Agbonjagwe Leemon Ikpea Foundation (ALIF), Dr. Lemon Ikpea has built a 62-bed medical centre to the Ewatto community in Esan South East Local Government Area of Edo State, to improve access to healthcare in the area and neighbouring communities.
The medical centre, named after the founder, was commissioned on Monday, October 19, 2026. It was built at an estimated cost of N2.227 billion.
The facility is equipped with modern medical equipment and is expected to reduce the difficulties faced by residents who had to travel considerable distances to access healthcare, particularly during emergencies.
The centre will provide a range of services, including emergency and urgent care, maternal and child health, diagnostic and laboratory services, pharmacy services, general medical care, preventive healthcare, specialist and referral care, and community health outreach.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ikpea explained that the project was conceived in response to the healthcare challenges facing Ewatto and the surrounding communities.
He said: “I firmly believe that one of the most meaningful legacies any individual can leave behind is an institution that continues to improve and preserve human lives long after the individual is gone. It is my sincere hope that this Medical Centre will become such a legacy.”
He stressed that the initiative complements, rather than substitutes for, government efforts to expand access to quality and affordable healthcare services.
He added: “We are particularly encouraged by the continuing efforts of both the Federal and Edo State Governments to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and improve access to healthcare services. We hope that this facility will become a valuable partner in those efforts.”
Ikpea noted that the centre would provide healthcare and create opportunities for medical professionals to work and train. He said it was also intended to ensure that mothers, children and elderly people could access timely medical attention without travelling long distances, while emergencies receive prompt care.
Acknowledging the contributions of the Federal and Edo State Governments, Ikpea urged the residents of Ewatto and the neighbouring communities to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, commended Ikpea, saying his life as a philanthropist was exemplified by the lives he had touched.
He praised Ikpea for the “extraordinary healthcare investment” he brought to his people.
Okpebholo said: “You have demonstrated that your true success is not measured by what you have achieved, but by the lives you have touched. You built more than hope; you have brought quality healthcare closer to the people.”
Commissioning the facility, the Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, commended Ikpea for complementing the government’s efforts to improve access to quality healthcare, describing the medical centre as a significant contribution to healthcare delivery in the community.
In a goodwill message, the Onojie of Ekpoma Kingdom, His Royal Highness Barrister Antony Ehiozojie Abumere II, congratulated Ikpea on the establishment of the medical centre, describing it as a valuable contribution to the health and wellbeing of the people of Esanland.
Abumere said the project reflected the values of compassion and communal responsibility, praying for God to grant Ikpea greater wisdom, strength and long life to continue serving humanity.
Similarly, in a message signed by its Managing Director, ESV Tony Okonigene, Peacton Global Ventures Limited, the contractor that constructed the facility, said the project reflected the founder’s philanthropy and commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the Esan people.
The company added that the medical centre would improve access to healthcare, help save lives and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Also, the Onogie of Igueben, HRM Ehiogie Eluojierior, commended Ikpea’s achievements and the human investment initiatives of his foundation across Edo State, urging other capable individuals to emulate his efforts in providing healthcare facilities.
Established in 2012 by Ikpea, ALIF has since pursued programmes in education, social welfare, skills and community development.
