In a strong appeal to citizens and families across Ogun State and Nigeria at large, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, has called for a renewed culture of care and dignity towards the elderly, as Bayink Care-Home officially opened its doors as the second elderly facility in the state.
Speaking at the commissioning of Bayink Care-Home in Abeokuta over the weekend, Hon. Adeleye lamented the decline in community-based support systems that once defined the society.
“Years past, we know that most especially in this part of the country, we are community based , everybody cares for each other but unfortunately with the society we live in now, our elders are been left unattended to and this is causing untimely death to some of them . These are people who have given their best to raise their children and who expected that in their old age , they’re going to be taking care of” she said.
Highlighting the shift in family structures and lifestyles, she explained that practices such as sending children to live with grandparents are fading away. Instead, many elderly are now left alone in large houses or in the care of underage house helps who cannot provide the emotional support or companionship seniors need.
“What we are encouraging now is the establishment of more elderly people’s homes, places where they can find companionship, share experiences, and receive affection. Bayink Care-Home is one such place, and we are proud to have this facility in Ogun State”.
Hon. Adeleye urged families to rethink their perception of elderly homes, emphasizing that such decisions should not be seen as abandonment but as acts of love that prioritize the mental and emotional well-being of aging parents.
“This is why we are encouraging old people’s home . Now we have the second one in Abeokuta, Ogun State
“I want to encourage our people , some will say I don’t want to take my parents to elderly home, but what love, affection are you showing them at home ?Do you even know what they’re going through? will it not be better to take them to somewhere where they can find their age mate, where they can find people who they can relate with .
“So I want to plead with our people, today Bayinkhome has birth in Ogun State and they have world class facilities. Please, let us patronize them , this is a place where we can be rest assured our parents can be loved, that they can get that affection that they needed , so that their days can be long upon the earth, that’s the way for us to show them the love they’ve showered over us when we where young”.
Founder and CEO of Bayink Care-Home, Mrs. Olayinka Odumosu, shared her personal journey and lifelong passion for elderly care, tracing it back to her teenage years with her great-grandmother and volunteer experiences at a UK-based care home during her time at Clapton Girls’ Academy.
“From the moment my great-grandmother would call out to me saying, ‘My nurse, I need my medication,’ I knew caring for others, especially the elderly, was my calling,” she recalled emotionally.
Her dream, now realized in Bayink, is not just about business, but about building a sanctuary of compassion, community, and professional care. With a starting capacity of 14 residents, the facility offers personalized services, dignity, and world-class standards at rates made affordable for local families and even Nigerians in the diaspora.
“Just because someone is old doesn’t mean their life is over. They still have stories, memories, and the need for companionship. Bayink is more than a care home, it’s a home filled with love, respect, and purpose.
“Let’s not wait until our parents are gone before we throw big parties. Let’s celebrate them while they’re alive, with love, attention, and care. Bayink is a place where they can feel truly at home again”she said.
Mrs. Odumosu also highlighted the organization’s broader community mission, announcing plans to partner with local schools, colleges, and training institutions to offer work experience placements, volunteer opportunities, and summer jobs for young people.
Speaking alongside his wife, Elder Banji Odumosu, the CEO’s husband, noted the importance of giving back to parents while they are still alive.
“Life is give and take. Whatever you sow into your parents today, your children will give back to you tomorrow. That “Iya Alata” who sponsored your education, who gave you life, deserves better now,” he emphasized.
