Diamonds are rare, enduring, and beautiful, qualities that define both their value and their brilliance. In the same way, High Chief (Dr.) Olusoji Isaac Ijidale shines as a rare gem among men: a physician, humanitarian, traditional leader, and philanthropist whose life is dedicated to service, excellence, and community development.
Early Life and Education
Born to the family of Late High Chief Mike and Mrs. Comfort Ijidale of Agbado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Soji, as he is fondly called, was destined for greatness. His late father, High Chief Mike Ijidale, was the immediate past Onisa Isanda of Agbado-Ekiti, a revered position that underscored the family’s royal and traditional heritage.
From a young age, Soji—as fondly called— stood out for his brilliance. At 11, he was already in secondary school, and by 16 he had completed it—an uncommon feat for his generation. That same year, he gained admission into the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) to study medicine. At just 23, he had earned two medical degrees, officially becoming a doctor at an age when many were still charting their course in life.
He completed his housemanship, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and medical tutelage, before co-founding Fortune Hospital and Dental Centre in Ibadan in 1994. For over 30 years, he has served as Medical Director, expanding services with clinics in Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos States.
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His pursuit of knowledge remained insatiable. He earned a Master’s in Public Health from the University of Ibadan, studied at the University of Washington, Seattle, USA, where he obtained certificates in Global Health Research and Leadership and Management in Health, and later completed a Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health at Cambrian College, Ontario, Canada.
Professional and Humanitarian Service
Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Olusoji Isaac Ijidale has distinguished himself in healthcare innovation, public health consulting, and nonprofit leadership. He is the Chief Operating Trustee of Fortune Health Plus Initiative (FHePIn), a nonprofit dedicated to improving healthcare, education, and community development in Nigeria.
Under his leadership, FHePIn has launched impactful initiatives such as vocational training for secondary school students, empowerment programs for women, and skill development projects aimed at lifting vulnerable Nigerians out of poverty. He has worked alongside notable figures, including Senator Donald Omotayo Alasoadura, Chairman of FHePIn’s Board of Trustees. The organization thrives on values of integrity, collaboration, accountability, ingenuity, and responsibility, reflecting Dr. Ijidale’s personal ethos.
His humanitarian journey began long before FHePIn, through the Rotary Club of Iyaganku-Ibadan, which he joined in 1992. Rising to become President in 2002, his service has taken him across continents, where he actively participated in Rotary International conferences and global humanitarian projects. His passion for charity also inspired the establishment or support of four nonprofit organizations in Nigeria and Canada, including his current chairmanship of Great Men of Greater Sudbury (GMGS) in Canada.
Traditional and Family Life
A man deeply rooted in his heritage, High Chief Ijidale is the Onisa Isanda of Agbado-Ekiti, the historical and traditional head of the Isanda community. He also holds the prestigious title of Jagunmolu of Agbado Kingdom, the first and only kingmaker to ever be so honoured, in the kingdom. This was sequel to the giant strides he made in the kingdom during the transition of the immediate past paramount ruler.
Behind his many accomplishments is his devoted wife, Chief (Mrs.) Faith Omoyemi Ijidale, the Eye Muwagun of Agbado Land. A Dental Nurse, Psychologist, and Addiction Counsellor, she has been more than a wife—she is his confidant, adviser, and steadfast pillar of support. They are blessed with two children, Opeyemi and Omobolanle, who continue to bring joy and pride to the family.
At 60, High Chief (Dr.) Olusoji Isaac Ijidale’s life tells the story of a diamond refined by brilliance, service, and compassion. He stands tall as a renowned medical entrepreneur, Dental surgeon of repute, unassailable humanitarian, traditional leader, nonprofit pioneer, and family man whose influence extends across Nigeria and beyond.
Indeed, he is not just a jewel to his family and community, but also a priceless gift to humanity. As he celebrates his Diamond Jubilee, may his light continue to shine, illuminating paths for generations to come. Amen
