It’s Now or Never for South-West Economic Transformation, Diaspora Expert Tells Ooni

A United States-based healthcare entrepreneur and internationally acclaimed Physiotherapist, Dr Akinloye Olorungbemi, has called for urgent and coordinated efforts to fast-track infrastructural development across Nigeria’s South-West region, declaring that the time to transform yorubaland “is now or never.”

Dr. Olorungbemi made the appeal during a visit to the Ooni of Ife, Ọba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ọjájá II. where he stressed the need for all stakeholders in the region to work together to unlock the South-West’s vast economic potential.

Speaking during the visit, he said the region could no longer afford to delay critical development, particularly in infrastructure, if it hopes to achieve sustainable progress and prosperity.

According to him, the South-West remains richly endowed with abundant mineral resources and other natural assets that must be strategically harnessed for the benefit of the people.

“My expectation is very simple. I want the entire South-West region to develop infrastructurally,” he said.

“Development in the region is a must, and all stakeholders must put their hands together to ensure that meaningful progress is achieved.”

The diaspora-based health expert who hails from Okitipupa, Ondo State, observed that despite its enormous potential, the South-West still grapples with significant infrastructural deficits that continue to slow economic advancement.

He noted that every part of the region is blessed with natural endowments capable of driving industrial growth, job creation, and broader economic prosperity if properly managed.

“The region is heavily blessed with a plethora of mineral resources and other natural endowments. We must tap into these resources so that our region can move forward,” he added.

Dr. Olorungbemi also underscored the importance of mobilising diaspora resources, promoting youth entrepreneurship, and strengthening institutional governance as critical pillars for building a prosperous and globally competitive Yoruba region.

He reaffirmed his commitment to deploying his global healthcare and entrepreneurial expertise to support development initiatives that would positively impact the South-West.

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Earlier during the visit, the internationally recognised Physiotherapist described the throne of the Ooni of Ife as a powerful and enduring institution that continues to promote harmony, cultural identity, and socio-economic advancement across Yorubaland and beyond.

He said the leadership example of the revered monarch should inspire political leaders and other key stakeholders in the region to unite around a common vision of transformation, inclusive growth, and lasting development.

According to him, only through collective commitment and purposeful leadership can the South-West fully realise its historic potential as a leading force in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.

Responding, the monarch, Oba Ogunwusi welcomed him and lauded his numerous contributions to the development of yorubaland and also Nigeria at large.