Dr. Julius Oni, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery, has returned to Nigeria after 25 years in the United States. In a viral video, he explained his decision, saying, “I reverse Japa from the U.S. to Nigeria six weeks ago.” The term “Japa” refers to fleeing or emigrating in search of better opportunities.
Oni took a leave of absence from his job at Johns Hopkins University. He sold his house and cars and moved back to Nigeria with his wife and children. His mission is to transform healthcare and provide quality orthopedic care to Nigerians.
“I know some of you may call me delusional or even crazy,” he said. “But I’m just a man full of conviction.” Oni, who also leads XCITE Capital, believes Nigerians deserve access to world-class healthcare.
To support this mission, he launched DOC Medical Nigeria, a facility dedicated to high-quality musculoskeletal care. “Part of my effort is to provide access to care so that people do not have to travel abroad for high-quality orthopedic surgery,” he explained.
Oni reported that his efforts are already showing positive results. “I am humbled to say that people are coming from near and far, from as near as Ghana and as far as the UK.” Many patients who would have traveled abroad for surgery can now receive top-tier care in Nigeria.
On his Instagram, Oni shared accomplishments since opening DOC Medical Nigeria, including his first series of surgeries and free medical clinics in partnership with other organizations. He also mentioned consulting with patients outside Nigeria.
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