Dr. Paul Akintelure: Outstanding Leader, Loyalty & Unrivaled Aspirant for the 2024 Gubernatorial Election in Ondo State

Op-ed by Femi Adewole

Dr. Paul Akintelure, a distinguished medical practitioner and community leader, was born in the vibrant town of Igbotako, Ondo State, Nigeria. His journey in education began at St. Anthony’s RCM School, Omotosho, in 1967. Following his family’s relocation, he continued his primary education at St. Pius Primary School, Igbotako, and excelled academically, completing his primary education in 1973. Tragedy struck in 1978 when his father, Mr. S.O. Akintelure, a teacher, passed away in a road traffic accident. Despite this setback, Dr. Akintelure’s academic prowess earned him a government scholarship in 1976, witnessed by his late father.

Undeterred by the challenges, Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s journey took him to Manuwa Memorial Grammar School, Iju-Odo, in 1975, where his exceptional intelligence shone through. He secured a Division One grade in the West African School Certificate Exams (WASCE) in 1980, a testament to his academic dedication. His passion for medicine led him to decline offers from two polytechnics and the University of Benin, opting instead for a rigorous A-level program at the Federal Government College, Odogbolu. This choice marked the beginning of his remarkable journey toward a medical degree at the University of Ibadan, where he obtained his MBBS in 1990.

Beyond his impressive academic achievements, Dr. Akintelure is a devoted family man. Blessed with four children, two girls, and two boys, he embodies the values of commitment and responsibility. His personal life reflects a balance between professional success and family values, demonstrating that excellence in one area need not compromise the other.

Scholarships, Community Support, Academic and Professional Achievements

The journey to becoming a medical doctor was not without financial challenges for Dr. Paul Akintelure. After the passing of his father, he faced the responsibility of supporting ten fatherless siblings. Notably, in 1976, the Ondo State government recognized his potential and awarded him a scholarship. Further, the Igbotako Youth League, an elite organization, extended another scholarship to the promising scholar. Dr. Akintelure’s proactive approach led him to secure a teaching position at Lubokun Comprehensive High School, Igbotako, to save for his future education, showcasing his resilience and commitment to his goals.

Dr. Paul Akintelure’s academic journey culminated in his graduation from the University of Ibadan with an MBBS degree in 1990. His commitment to excellence was evident as he consistently secured top positions throughout his educational pursuits. Beyond academia, he has become a distinguished medical practitioner, contributing to the well-being of the community. His dedication to both education and community service has earned him the titles of Otunba of Osooro-land and Otunba of Ikale-land, reflecting the high regard in which he is held by his community.

Dr. Paul Akintelure’s life story is one of resilience, academic excellence, and community service. From overcoming personal tragedies to achieving professional success, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring individuals in both the medical field and the broader community.

Dr. Paul Akintelure: Life of Triumph Over Adversity

Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s journey through university was marked by formidable challenges, a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity. Struggling against hunger, inadequacy, and the harsh realities of poverty, the young Paul Akintelure faced a defining moment. Undeterred, he emerged victorious in his battle against the constraints of financial limitations. During his internship at General Hospital, Lagos, and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Comprehensive Health Centre in Ogunbayo, Abeokuta, Dr. Akintelure’s leadership qualities, dexterity, and unwavering dedication shone through.

His transformative impact on the Ogunbayo Health Centre, turning it into the busiest in the local government, attested to his exceptional work ethic. This early professional experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors, showcasing a commitment to excellence that would define his medical career. Brief stints at Island Maternity, Lagos, preceded the establishment of his private hospital, BROAD HOSPITAL, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.

Philanthropy, Leadership, and Political Engagement

Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Paul Akintelure has emerged as a compassionate leader, philanthropist, and active participant in local politics. Recognized for his outstanding contributions to the community, he was honored with the title of Otunba of Ossooro-Land by HRM Oba Shadriack Gbadebo Bajowa in November 2005. This recognition was followed by the title of Otunba of Ikale-Land, conferred by the Abodi of Ikale-Land in December 2007. Dr. Akintelure’s alignment with the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in response to the community’s call further underscores his commitment to public service.

A true caring heart, Dr. Paul Akintelure has demonstrated his commitment to education by providing scholarships to forty-two students and counting across various higher learning institutions. As an employer of labor, he contributes to job creation and economic development. His benevolence extends to offering free medical services to indigent patients in Ondo, reflecting a public-spirited approach to healthcare. Dr. Paul Akintelure’s exemplary and kind-hearted initiatives have significantly impacted Ondo and Lagos states, making healthcare accessible and affordable to communities. His background positions him as a force dedicated to liberating the people from the chains of poverty, illiteracy, and disease, marking him as a transformative figure in Ondo State.

Political Journey and Loyalty to the Leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Otunba Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s political journey is marked by loyalty and dedication to the Progressive fold, particularly under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In 2008, after the defeat of the AC (Action Congress) in Ondo State, PBAT (presumably a political figure or group) called upon the Democratic People’s Alliance (DPA) to return to Ondo State and rebuild the party. Recognizing DPA’s contribution to the AC’s victory in Alimosho local government in Lagos State, DPA willingly obliged. Dr. Akintelure played a pivotal role in the development of the party and was eventually urged to contest the senatorial election for Ondo South. His victory in the primary against the incumbent Senator Hosea Oladapo Ehinlanwo marked a significant achievement.

Dr. Paul Akintelure’s loyalty and commitment continued as he became the running mate to Akeredolu in 2012. Despite signifying his intention to contest the 2016 APC primary for the governorship, he stepped down at the request of PBAT, demonstrating a strong adherence to party decisions and hierarchy. The mention of Otunba Dr. Paul Akintelure by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as one of his long-time associates during a meeting with traditional rulers in Okitipupa speaks to the level of trust and loyalty he has earned within the political landscape.

Otunba Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s political resume is adorned with notable accomplishments and recognition within the APC (All Progressives Congress). Serving as the ACN deputy governorship candidate to Aketi (Akeredolu) in the 2012 Ondo State gubernatorial election showcased his capability and trustworthiness. His significance within the party was further emphasized when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu specifically mentioned him, along with Ambassador Sola Iji, as associates who had been with him for a long time. This acknowledgment underscores Dr. Akintelure’s standing as a trusted and loyal political figure within the APC, particularly in the southern senatorial district of Ondo State.

From Healthcare to Agro-Enterprise: Diversification for Nigeria’s Economic Growth

In a recent exclusive interview with The Sun Nigeria, Dr. Paul Akintelure, a distinguished medical practitioner, revealed the motivations behind his foray into agriculture. Recognizing the economic challenges faced by Nigeria, including inflation, depreciation, devaluation, and climate conditions, Dr. Akintelure stressed the need for diversification. He emphasized the interconnectedness of health and agriculture, citing the importance of nutrition for overall well-being. As a private sector participant, he highlighted the necessity to fund healthcare delivery independently, especially in the face of growing poverty and lack of job opportunities.

Dr. Paul Akintelure, based in Igbotako, Okitipupa Local Government Area, Ondo State, strategically leveraged his knowledge of agriculture from his upbringing and secondary school days. Despite being a medical doctor, he embraced agriculture as his evocation, establishing Broad Ranch Limited, a commercial livestock farming enterprise. This initiative spans fish farming, vegetable cultivation, poultry, oil-palm plantation, and a proposed project for palm kernel processing. Dr. Akintelure’s commitment to the value chain model not only supports national food sufficiency goals but also creates employment opportunities, demonstrating his dedication to community development.

Challenges and Impact on Youth Employment

When asked about the level of involvement and employment in his agricultural venture, Dr. Paul Akintelure acknowledged the engagement of about 30 workers, primarily from West Coast nations such as Benin and Togo. He expressed concern about the lack of interest among Nigerian youths in agriculture, attributing it to a misplaced sense of pride associated with higher education. Dr. Akintelure, however, sets a compelling example by actively participating in farming despite his medical background, challenging the stereotypes around vocational choices.

Apart from job creation, the agricultural enterprise has made a significant impact on the local youth through skill acquisition and vocational training. The initiative also supports students studying agriculture, offering them practical experience. Dr. Akintelure’s commitment extends beyond his personal gain, as evidenced by his plans to upgrade cassava processing machinery, promote agricultural engineering, and contribute to technological advancements within the Nigerian agricultural value chain. Despite the challenges, he urged the Nigerian elite to invest in agriculture, recognizing its potential for job creation, income generation, and national development.

This comprehensive report not only highlights Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s remarkable journey into agriculture but also emphasizes the broader implications of such initiatives for Nigeria’s economic diversification and youth empowerment.

The Unrivaled Aspirant for 2024 Gubernatorial Election

As the political landscape gears up for the 2024 gubernatorial election, Otunba Dr. Paul Akintelure emerges as the most outstanding aspirant across all parties. Backed by an impressive track record, he possesses the necessary experience, educational qualifications, endearing temperament, and wide acceptability. His unmatched magnanimity sets him apart, making him the clear choice among the long list of aspirants. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recognition of Dr. Akintelure as a trusted associate further validates his position as a leader with self-awareness, credibility, humility, and a commitment to the welfare of the less privileged.

In a political landscape where leadership qualities are scrutinized, Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s comparative advantage stands out, making him the epitome of a leader who not only talks the talk but walks the walk. As the 2024 gubernatorial election approaches, the narrative of Otunba Dr. Paul Akintelure being the unrivaled aspirant gains momentum, supported by his unparalleled attributes and the trust he has garnered over the years.