During Nigeria’s Second Republic, the government of Chief Victor Olabisi “Bisi”;; Onabanjo (1979–1983) marked a transformative era in Ogun State’s development—particularly in the areas of health and trade. As one of the closest political protégés of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Governor Onabanjo adopted and implemented the progressive policies of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) with discipline and innovation. His administration was a model of vision-driven governance that set enduring standards in public health, infrastructure, and economic expansion.
Among the most trusted officials in that administration was Timothy Aina Odeyemi, who served at different times as Commissioner in both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Trade and Industry.
His cross-ministerial appointments were a clear demonstration of the immense confidence Governor Onabanjo had in his competence and commitment.
As a constant in the cabinet, Odeyemi played a pivotal role in delivering the administration’s most enduring legacies.
Health Sector Achievements
1. Free Healthcare Programme
One of the boldest initiatives under the Onabanjo government was the implementation of free healthcare for all citizens. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Health—at a time led by Timothy Aina Odeyemi—Ogun State provided free access to both curative and preventive healthcare services. These included surgeries, maternity care, child immunization, accident and emergency care, and prescription medications, without charge.
The policy revolutionized access to healthcare, particularly for low-income and rural populations, and was lauded nationally as a model of public health delivery.
2. Primary Healthcare and Mobile Clinics
Driven by Odeyemi’s passion for inclusive health development, the administration undertook massive investments in primary healthcare centers across rural areas and introduced mobile clinic programs that brought medical care directly to remote villages. These innovations reflected the UPN’s grassroots development philosophy and were implemented with a focus on public health equity.
3. Teaching Hospital Infrastructure
During this era, the administration began the groundwork for what would become the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) in Sagamu.
As Commissioner for Health, Odeyemi worked closely with the university’s medical faculty to plan a tertiary healthcare and training hub that would serve the entire state. The administration also upgraded general hospitals in Ilaro and Ota with new equipment and services, setting a precedent in state-level medical infrastructure development.
Trade and Commerce Achievements
When he later assumed duties as Commissioner for Trade and Industry, Odeyemi continued to demonstrate his administrative versatility, becoming instrumental in advancing Ogun State’s commercial and industrial ambitions.
1. Development of Modern Markets
Under his leadership, the government constructed ultra-modern markets in Ijebu-Ode (Ita Osu Market) and Abeokuta (Oba Lipede Market).
These markets provided organized platforms for traders, boosted local economies, and helped integrate rural producers into urban supply chains. Today, they remain among the busiest and most iconic commercial centers in the state.
2. State-Owned Industrial Projects
Commissioner Odeyemi oversaw the creation of several state-owned enterprises that aimed to industrialize Ogun State’s economy:
̢ۢ Gateway Pharmaceuticals in Ijebu-Ode produced essential drugs locally, aligning with earlier public health goals.
̢ۢ Omo Wood Complex in Ogbere and a brick-making plant in Lapeleke added value to natural resources and created jobs.
̢ۢ The Agro-Service Center in Odeda supported agribusiness development, linking farmers to value chains.
These initiatives laid the foundation for Ogun State’s later emergence as an industrial hub in Nigeria.
3. Infrastructure for Trade and Investment
Recognizing the link between infrastructure and commerce, the administration upgraded key roads connecting production zones to markets.
The Gateway Hotels built in Abeokuta, Ota, and Ijebu-Ode further promoted hospitality, tourism, and business networking.
Lasting Legacy
Timothy Aina Odeyemi’s contribution as a key figure in these dual sectors—health and trade—was integral to the success of Bisi Onabanjo’s government.
His rare combination of policy depth and administrative capability made him a pillar in one of Ogun State’s most celebrated political eras.
Today, the legacy of that administration—rooted in bold health reform, infrastructural growth, and grassroots economic empowerment—continues to shape Ogun State’s development narrative.
Markets built over 40 years ago remain vital trade hubs. Health centers established in rural communities continue to serve new generations. And the vision of public-driven industrialization, once led by Odeyemi, still echoes in Ogun’s economic landscape.
Governor Bisi Onabanjo’s “golden era”;; of governance was made possible by loyal and visionary collaborators like Timothy Aina Odeyemi—men who served with distinction and left behind a blueprint still relevant to modern public policy.
Shonibare, a public affairs commentator writes from Abeokuta.
