Nigerian Surgeon Returns Home After 25 Years in the U.S. to Revolutionize Healthcare

Dr. Julius Oni, a Nigerian associate professor of orthopedic surgery, has returned to Nigeria after spending 25 years in the United States. In a heartfelt video that has gone viral, Dr. Oni shared his reasons for coming back home, explaining that he wants to transform healthcare in Nigeria and provide quality orthopedic care to his fellow Nigerians.

“I reverse Japa from the U.S. to Nigeria six weeks ago,” Dr. Oni said, using the popular Nigerian term ‘Japa,’ which means to leave the country in search of better opportunities. He made the bold decision to leave his prestigious position at Johns Hopkins University, where he was on leave, and relocate with his wife and children.

“I took a leave of absence from my job at Johns Hopkins, sold my house, sold my cars, packed my bags alongside my lovely wife and beautiful children, and moved after 25 years of living in the USA,” he explained in the video.

While many may find his decision surprising, Dr. Oni emphasized that he made the move out of a deep sense of conviction and a desire to make a positive impact on the healthcare system in Nigeria. “I know at this point some of you may call me delusional or even crazy, but I’m neither. I’m just a man full of conviction,” he said confidently.

Driven by his belief that Nigerians deserve access to world-class healthcare, Dr. Oni has set up DOC Medical Nigeria, a facility dedicated to providing high-quality musculoskeletal care. His goal is to ensure that Nigerians no longer have to travel abroad for top-notch orthopedic treatment. “I happen to believe that Nigerian patients deserve great care too,” he stated.

He has already seen encouraging results since opening his facility. “People are coming from near and far, from as near as Ghana and as far as the UK,” Dr. Oni shared, adding that many patients who would have otherwise sought surgery abroad are now able to receive top-tier orthopedic care right here in Nigeria.

Dr. Oni’s return to Nigeria has been marked by significant achievements. In the video posted on his Instagram account, he highlighted some of his recent accomplishments, including performing his first series of surgeries and organizing free medical clinics in collaboration with other organizations. He has also consulted with patients from outside Nigeria, demonstrating his commitment to making a difference beyond the country’s borders.

The surgeon’s decision to come back home and invest his skills and resources in Nigeria’s healthcare system has been met with admiration and support. Many see his move as an inspiring example of giving back to the community and a testament to the potential for positive change within the country.

As Dr. Oni continues his mission to revolutionize orthopedic care in Nigeria, his story serves as a reminder of the impact that individuals can have when they choose to make a difference, no matter the challenges they face.