The College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), in collaboration with the Department of Pediatrics, held a valedictory service on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, in honor of the late Professor Samuel Afolabi Olowe. The event was marked by heartfelt commendations, accolades, and testimonies celebrating his enduring legacy of excellence and professionalism in modern medicine.
In his tribute, Professor James Kweku Renner described the late Professor Olowe as a dedicated, committed, and exemplary leader, likening him to a field commander who tirelessly guided and supported his colleagues. He highlighted Olowe’s seminal publication, Standard of Intrauterine Growth for an African Population at Sea Level, which has become a reference in Neonatology and significantly contributed to placing Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) on the global medical map. Renner also noted that Olowe’s integrity, reliability, and discipline earned him the prestigious appointment as Chief Medical Director by Professor Ransome Kuti.
LUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo, FAS, praised Professor Olowe’s unwavering dedication to modern medicine, while the Provost of the College of Medicine, Professor Ademola Oremosu, FASmeds, described him as an institution in the field of medicine, whose contributions were invaluable.
Commendations poured in from institutions and associations where Olowe made an impact, including CMUL, LUTH, the West African College of Physicians, the Pediatric Association of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Society of Neonatal Medicine. His family, colleagues, and members of the Chapel of the Healing Cross also shared heartfelt tributes.
In his sermon, the Chief Resident Minister and Chapel Council Chairman, Venerable Samuel Olusegun Onafeso, reflected on the four stages of life: preparation (learning), contribution (service and impact), nostalgia (reflection), and exit (finality). He emphasized the importance of making meaningful contributions and cultivating a relationship with God, noting that Professor Olowe lived a life of devotion and service to humanity.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs. Olutoyin Malomo, the late professor’s eldest daughter, expressed gratitude to attendees and paid tribute to her father’s hard work and sincerity of purpose. She noted that she followed in his professional footsteps in modern medicine.
The valedictory service was attended by distinguished guests, including Professor Ademola Oremosu (Provost, CMUL), Professor Wasiu Adeyemo (CMD, LUTH), Professor Vincent Oshikalu (Dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences), Professor V. C. Ezeaka (Head of Pediatrics), and Professor Chris Bode (Immediate Past CMD, LUTH). The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Iretiola Fajolu, Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee.
REPORT: Akinola Afolabi
PHOTOGRAPHY: Michael Joshua
