Makinde opens Sola Sobowale's care home for older adults in Ibadan
- Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde commissioned Joseph and Esther Homes in Akobo, Ibadan, on Tuesday.
- Actress Sola Sobowale built the facility for older adults and named it after her parents.
- Nollywood stars including Adebayo Salami, Femi Adebayo and Kunle Afolayan attended the launch.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Tuesday commissioned a residential care home for older adults in Ibadan, built by veteran Nollywood actress Sola Sobowale.
The facility, called Joseph and Esther Homes, sits in the Akobo area of the Oyo State capital. The governor toured the indoor and outdoor sections and cut the ribbon to open it, according to reports of the event.
The launch also featured the presentation of Sobowale's book, Built From the Break. The ceremony drew Nollywood figures including Adebayo Salami, Femi Adebayo, Kunle Afolayan and Ibrahim Chatta, and was streamed live on the actress's Instagram page.
Punch reported that Sobowale was moved to tears during a tribute to her vision and caring nature, and that her daughter consoled her.
Why it matters to families
The home is marketed under the tagline "Live Well, Age Well, Thrive Together" and describes itself as "A Place to Call Home". According to its website, it is built on the idea that families need support, not replacement, when caring for ageing parents.
"We do not replace family. We help families care better," the company states on the site.
That message may land with many Nigerian households, where children working long hours or living abroad struggle to supervise care for elderly parents. The facility promises professional care, a safe home and regular communication with relatives.
Legit.ng reported that Sobowale named the home after her parents, Joseph and Esther Olagookun. It said she began caregiving work in London after leaving Nigeria in 2004, earning National Vocational Qualification certificates at levels two, three and four and rising to team leader.
The Nation reported that the project is scheduled to fully launch in the latter months of 2026. Families interested in the home can register their interest and book a virtual consultation through its website, its management said.
The commissioning also signals state support for private social care initiatives. It is not clear from the reports whether the Oyo government contributed funding or land to the project.
What happens next
Families can register interest online ahead of the full launch later in 2026. The reports did not give the cost of staying at the home or how many older adults it can take in.
