Dr. Adegbajo Odedina: Building Haven Pediatrics to Fight Nigeria’s Child Mortality Crisis

Dr. Adegbajo Odedina, a pediatrician and neonatologist, defied expectations of joining the exodus of Nigerian doctors abroad. Instead, he returned home with a mission to confront Nigeria's alarming child and neonatal mortality rates by establishing Haven Pediatrics, a hospital exclusively dedicated to treating children.

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We see this too often. By the time some babies get to us, they have lost precious hours.

What began as a small clinic has evolved into Haven Pediatrics, a 24-hour facility offering a comprehensive range of pediatric services under one roof. The hospital features dedicated pediatric consultants, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and all necessary sub-specialties. This focused approach provides premature infants and children with complex medical conditions access to specialized care and equipment, significantly improving their chances of survival.

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Several years ago, I made up my mind, like the average Nigerian doctor, to pack my bags and leave the country. But while I was there, I was very uncomfortable, and I had to come back. I came back with the mindset that there is a need in my community here.

Dr. Odedina shared his personal journey, recalling his initial plan to leave Nigeria for opportunities abroad. However, a profound sense of responsibility and a recognition of the urgent need within his community compelled him to return. "I came back with the mindset that there is a need in my community here," he stated. This conviction fueled the creation of Haven Pediatrics, aiming to deliver quality, affordable care to Nigeria's most vulnerable young patients.

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So I teamed up with some friends, and we decided that we are going to start a hospital exclusively for children, where they can get quality, affordable care.

The hospital's commitment to continuous care is evident in its 24-hour operation and the constant availability of pediatricians and consultants. Dr. Odedina emphasizes that unlike general hospitals, Haven Pediatrics ensures that a specialist is always accessible. This unwavering focus on pediatric expertise is central to the facility's mission to combat the high mortality rates and offer a fighting chance to critically ill children in Nigeria.

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You have access to a pediatrician every day of the week. On Sundays, we are not seated there, but there is a doctor available. And if need be, a consultant will come.