With a heart of gold and a spirit of resilience, Chief Mrs Olayinka Latinwo is the CEO of the four Healthcare companies in the United States.Her companies has produced excellent care in the US for over 25years.
She has been a beacon of hope for the vulnerable in her community She has provided countless individuals with access to free education and shelter transforming lives and inspiring new generation of leaders.
She was recently confered with the title of Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua by His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi ,Ojaja 11 .
She spoke with select journalists on the state of the nation, women in politics, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda among others.
Excerpts:
Can you tell us about yourself?
My name is Chief (Mrs) Olayinka Latinwo. I was installed as Iya Oba of Isin Kingdom in Kwara State. Iam now by the grace of God the newly installed Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua..
Iam a wife, mother of three and grandmother to a wonderful little girl. I was born on Lagos Island and grew up in a family that valued education and service. I attended Ebire Nursing and Primary School, St Anne’s School in Molete, and later the Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, before moving to the United States where I built a career in healthcare. Over the past 25 years I have founded and led several healthcare companies, providing everything from rehabilitation to end‑of‑life care to thousands of patients._
How do you feel when you were informed about this prestigious title of Yeye-Bobagunwa Oodua?*
_When His Imperial Majesty, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II, conferred the title Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua on me, I was overwhelmed with humility and gratitude. It felt like a warm embrace from my ancestors, confirming that the work I have done has resonated beyond borders._
What does this honor means to you?
_This title is not a personal trophy; it is a call to serve with even greater purpose. Yeye Bobagunwa Oodua places me as a bridge between the palace and the women of Yorubaland, embodying strategic leadership, diplomacy and the custodianship of our cultural values. It reminds me that my responsibilities now extend to uplifting every woman and child in Oodua Nation._
Can you tell us about your journey and the experiences that have shaped you into the person you are today*
_My path has been shaped by a blend of formal education, hands‑on experience in healthcare, and a deep commitment to giving back. From the bustling streets of Lagos Island to the boardrooms of U.S. healthcare firms, each step taught me resilience, humility and the power of community. The loss of my parents, Chief Adegboyega Alade and Mrs Atinuke Alade, instilled in me the value of sacrifice, while my husband, Engineer Olanrewaju Latinwo, has been a steady anchor, I have lived from childhood till
date a life of discipline, integrity and hardwork._
What do you believe are significant contributions to the community or society that warrants this recognition?*
_Through my companies I have created jobs, improved access to quality care, and supported countless families. The Shamrock Foundation and other initiatives have funded scholarships, vocational training for widows and orphans, and cultural programs that preserve Yoruba heritage. These efforts, I believe, align with the ideals that warrant this recognition._
No doubt you are a trailblazer and a pace setter, have you ever thought of dabbling in politics?*
_I have always been more of a catalyst for change from the private sector, but I understand that policy shapes the environment in which we operate. While I have not entered electoral politics, I remain open to serving my country in any capacity that advances the welfare of our people._
Would you encouraging women to engage in politics?
_Absolutely. Women bring empathy, integrity and collaborative spirit to the table. I would encourage every woman to consider public service, to run for office, and to mentor the next generation of female leaders._
As an entrepreneur of note how do you see the state of the nation? And what’s your take on President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda*
_Nigeria is at a crossroads; our youthful population is a tremendous asset, but we must address infrastructure, education and security. President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda has promising elements particularly the focus on job creation, agricultural development and anti‑corruption measures. Implementation will be key, and I hope to see swift, inclusive actions that translate hope into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens._
The US President Donald Trump has classified Nigeria as a country of “Particular Concern” over the alleged Christian genocide, what’s your take on this?
_I respect the concerns raised by any world leader, but I believe the narrative of a “Christian genocide” does not reflect the complex reality on the ground. Nigeria is a nation of many faiths living side by side. What we need is dialogue, justice and equal protection for all citizens, regardless of religion._
The South-West Governors are working in tandem to check insecurity in the Sub-region. Do you think the establishment of state police will reduced banditry and kidnapping in the Country
_The establishment of State Police could provide more localized intelligence and faster response to banditry and kidnapping, especially in the Southwest where governors are already coordinating security efforts. However, successful implementation will require robust accountability mechanisms to prevent abuse and ensure that police forces work in harmony with community needs._
What’s your advice for the Nigerian youths who believe in or tempted by “get‑rich‑quick”
_Hard work, perseverance and continuous learning remain the most reliable pathways to sustainable wealth. I urge young people to invest in skills, seek mentorship, and avoid shortcuts that often lead to disappointment or exploitation._
What legacy do you hope to leave as Yeye Bobagunwa
_I hope to be remembered as a woman who nurtured the family of Yoruba, who lifted spirits through service, and who kept the flame of our culture burning bright for generations to come._
What does this recognition mean to your loved ones, and how do you think they feel about your achievement?
_My husband, children and grandchild see this title as validation of the values we have tried to live by, integrity, service and humility. They are proud, yet they remind me daily that the true honor lies in the lives we touch._
What has been your life‑long guiding principle
_“Serve before you are served.” This simple mantra has guided every decision, from building a healthcare business to supporting community projects._
How do you wish to be remembered?
As a bridge connecting people, cultures and opportunities; as a steward of our heritage; and as a mother who helped shape a more compassionate, prosperous Nigeria._
