Why We Donated Geriatrics Library, Lounge To UBTH In Memory Of Our Patriarch – Ahonaruogho Family

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The family of Pa Jeremiah Olu Oma Ahonaruogho, who hailed from Ughoton in Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, has explained the reason behind their donation of a Geriatrics Library and Lounge to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital UBTH, saying that it was in appreciation of the significant role the health institution played in the life of their patriarch, especially in his latter years, and also as a way of giving back to society.

Speaking during the official lunch of the facilities yesterday, one of the sons of Pa. Jeremiah who is also an alumni of the University of Benin, Prince Richard Olu Oma Ahonaruogho (SAN), said that the family decided to build the facility to provide a dedicated, accessible space for seniors to gather, thereby, combating the severe health risks of social isolation, promoting cognitive health through reading and lifelong learning, and to ensure elders have access to age-appropriate resources.

According to him, “we recognised the role UBTH played in turning a situation that seemed impossible with other healthcare facilities around.

“We didn’t lose him because he didn’t get quality healthcare, but because it was time for him to go. When other healthcare facilities declared it was beyond them, UBTH accommodated him, cared for him and gave him a reason to live again. Within the short time our father was there, he had the opportunity to spend some quality time with friends and loved ones.

“While my father was in the hospital, he was being supplied newspapers to read on a daily basis. When he passed on, I sponsored the continuous supply of the newspapers and other historic materials.

“But one day, I thought to myself, instead of people going out day in, day out to get these materials for the elderly people at the centre, why can’t I do something that will be permanent? Then came the idea of this library and Lounge for the comfort of the elderly patients”.

He charged all present to always do things that will impact lives. ” This Library and Lounge will serve as a source of happiness to the elderly. They now have a one-stop place that provides them with all recreational materials”, he added.

Wife of Pa. Jeremiah, Princess Josephine Olu Oma Ahonaruogho, and his children, Dr. Gabriel Ahonaruogho, Mrs Dorcas Ogweraye Adefolaju (née Ahonaruogho), and Maureen Olashore, also expressed gratitude to God for the life lived by their patriarch and to UBTH for the honour done the family.

“We feel greatly honored for the honor done our family today, as it signifies the bond the family has with UBTH.

They prayed that the institution continues to grow from strength to strength and remains a beacon of first-class healthcare in Nigeria and beyond.

In a goodwill message, a one-time governorship candidate in Edo State and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who is also an alumnus of UNIBEN, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, said the family of Ahonaruogho has done something very uncommon.

“Prince Richard was a student of the University of Benin. He was not a medical student. The father spent only three weeks before he passed on. He didn’t see the passing of his father as a challenge; rather, he saw it as an opportunity to give back to society and to make a positive impact. What he has done today is to create an enabling environment where patients’ and visitors’ healing process becomes attractive.

Speaking during the commissioning, the Chief Medical Director of UBTH, Prof. Idia Ize-Iyamu, said the hospital was paying tribute to a man whose character, achievement and example continues to command respect and admiration.

She said that the facility is designed as a recreation area for reflection, engagement, and improved geriatric care, adding that the facility will serve countless patients, healthcare providers, students, and visitors in the years ahead.

According to her, “great institutions are shaped not only by their achievements, but by the lives of individuals whose contributions leave lasting impressions. Today, UBTH proudly honours Pa. Jeremiah Olu Oma Ahonaruogho and the value his name represents.

“This facility is more than a physical space. It reflects our belief that caring for older persons extends beyond medical treatment. It requires an environment that promotes comfort, dignity, relaxation, recreation, social interaction, and meaningful engagement.

“The Geriatrics Library and Lounge provides a welcoming setting where elderly patients can experience moments of connection, companionship, and wellbeing as part of their healthcare journey. It represents a more compassionate approach to care- one that recognises every patient as a person deserving of respect and attention.

“To the Ahonaruogho Family, we deeply appreciate your presence today. We are honoured that the memory of your patriarch will now remain connected with UBTH’s pursuit of excellence and compassionate service.

“This occasion marks a significant milestone in the continued advancement of geriatric care and learning at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH”, she said.

The high point of the ceremony was the presentation of a gift by patients at the geriatric centre to Prince Richard Olu Oma Ahonaruogho.