St. Ives Specialist Hospital, a leading multi-specialist hospital in Nigeria known for IVF, family, children, and women's medical care, celebrated its 30th anniversary on Friday, July 10, 2026. The hospital, which operates five branches in Ikeja, Ikoyi, Akowonjo, Festac, and Abeokuta, has announced plans to add three more branches before the end of 2026, bringing the total to eight.
Founder Reflects on Humble Beginnings
Dr Babatunde Okewale, Chief Medical Director and founder of St. Ives Specialist Hospital, shared his reflections during the 30th anniversary celebrations. He expressed gratitude to God, the board, staff, and patients who have supported the hospital since it began operations in a three-bedroom property at 34 Aromire Avenue, Adeniyi Jones, Ikeja, Lagos, on July 10, 1996.
“Thirty years ago, on the 10th of July, 1996, St. Ives Hospital opened its doors at 34 Aromire Avenue, Adeniyi Jones. We started with a clear purpose: to serve women, children, and families with healthcare they could rely on,” Dr Okewale said.
The hospital moved from Aromire Avenue to 90 Opebi Road before acquiring its own properties and expanding deliberately. Today, St. Ives is a multi-specialist hospital dedicated to women's health, paediatrics, family health, and fertility. Its fertility clinic has become one of the most trusted in Nigeria, with over 4,000 IVF babies born at the hospital since its inception, alongside thousands of normal deliveries.
Expansion Plans and Urgent Care Clinics
Dr Okewale noted that the need for quick, quality healthcare has driven the hospital to establish urgent care clinics and open more branches. The hospital's Chief Operating Officer, Ajibola Busola, confirmed that urgent care clinics will open in Eko Atlantic, Ikeja, and Abeokuta before the end of the year. These clinics will provide walk-in medical treatment for immediate, non-life-threatening health concerns such as minor fractures, severe infections, or sudden illnesses.
“Today, we celebrate not just the passage of time, but a legacy of excellence, compassion, and innovation in healthcare delivery. From our humble beginnings to where we stand today, St. Ives has grown into a trusted institution with five thriving branches, touching countless lives and families across our communities,” Ajibola said.
The 30th anniversary celebrations included sporting activities, a luncheon, and a gala night.
Focus on Legacy and Future Generations
Dr Okewale emphasised that the hospital's focus has shifted to legacy after 30 years of success despite numerous challenges. “As we celebrate thirty years, our focus shifts to legacy. We are building St. Ives to outlast any one individual, with the structures, people, and standards in place for the next generation to continue this vision and grow it further,” he said.
He attributed the hospital's success to God's blessings, the board, management, dedicated staff, and loyal clients. The hospital holds Safecare accreditation as a 4-star medical facility in Nigeria.
