By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos
Members of the 1984 graduating class of the College of Health Sciences, University of Ilorin, on Friday reunited in Lagos to celebrate 42 years after graduation, using the occasion to urge Nigerian youths to embrace hard work, pursue quality education and commit themselves to selfless service and national development.
The alumni, drawn from across Nigeria and the diaspora, said the reunion was not only a celebration of enduring friendship and professional accomplishments but also an opportunity to reflect on their contributions to society and inspire younger generations to succeed through diligence rather than shortcuts.
The message formed the highlight of the 2026 Celebration and Reunion of the 1984 Medical Graduates held at the Movenpick Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos, with the theme: “The Medical Profession: Lifelong Service through Learning and Giving – 42 Years Stewardship after Graduation.” The event featured a keynote lecture by former President of the Nigerian Medical Association, Prof. Olufemi O. Adelowo, titled “The Future of Medical Practice in Nigeria – Random Musings!!”
Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the event, one of the organisers, Dr. Festus Odunayo Oshoba, described the class as a “microcosm of Nigeria,” noting that its members came from different parts of the country but were united by the quality education they received at the University of Ilorin.
According to him, government support during their undergraduate years placed a responsibility on them to give back to society.
“The nation treated us well and, to whom much is given, much is expected. Forty-two years after graduation, we have seen and conquered, and we are giving back to society. Most of us are employers of labour, philanthropists and professionals who have left our footprints in the sands of time,” Oshoba said.
He said the reunion was intended to send a strong message to young Nigerians that success comes through discipline, perseverance and commitment to excellence.
“The youth of today think there is a shortcut. When you look at our yearbook, none of us took a shortcut. If you want to succeed, you have to go through the process, be well trained, do things right and obey the laws of society. Nigeria is a great nation and the youth must help make it better,” he added.
Responding to questions on the state of education and the migration of professionals abroad, Oshoba attributed the early wave of brain drain to policies implemented during successive military administrations, which, he said, weakened public institutions and encouraged professionals to seek opportunities overseas.
While acknowledging that Nigeria still faces significant challenges, he urged young people to take advantage of current educational initiatives and play active roles in nation-building.
Also speaking, Dr. Tunji Olowolafe described the reunion as a celebration of life, friendship and decades of shared experiences among classmates who first met nearly five decades ago.
“We’ve known each other since 1978 and have remained together ever since. We communicate every day despite living in different parts of the world. This reunion is about celebrating life, our friendship and what we have achieved together,” Olowolafe said.
Delivering the keynote address, the Consultant Rheumatologist, Prof. Olufemi O. Adelowo, expressed concern over the future of healthcare delivery in Nigeria, warning that the continued migration of doctors, poor hospital infrastructure, shortage of skilled personnel and weak investment in the health sector pose serious threats to medical practice.
He observed that thousands of Nigerian doctors now practise abroad while many hospitals continue to grapple with inadequate facilities, obsolete equipment and manpower shortages.
Adelowo also highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence to improve diagnosis, treatment and medical research, stressing that technology would complement healthcare professionals rather than replace them.
“The future is here. The question is whether Nigeria is ready for it,” he said.
The reunion also featured reminiscences by members of the 1984 graduating class, including colleagues who joined virtually from different parts of the world. Participants shared memories of their years at the University of Ilorin Medical School, reflected on their professional journeys over the past four decades, renewed old friendships and reaffirmed their commitment to mentoring younger professionals and contributing to the advancement of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Leave a Reply