Offa, a town rich in history and culture, has produced many notable individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. One such prominent figure is Professor (Chief) A.B.O. Olukayode Oyediran, a distinguished medical professional and academic whose work has left an indelible mark on both the national and international stages. This article delves into the life, achievements, and legacy of this esteemed Offa indigene.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on May 18, 1939, in Lagos, Allen Bankole Oladunmoye Olukayode Oyediran was the eldest child of Mr. Augustus Bandele Oyediran and Mrs. Victoria Bolajoko Oyediran (née Alao Ojo). His father was a respected educator and diplomat, serving as the Principal of Methodist Boys’ High School in Lagos, Nigeria’s first High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, and the first General Secretary of the Offa Descendants Union. This illustrious background undoubtedly influenced Olukayode’s path, instilling in him values of excellence and service.
Education
Olukayode’s educational journey began at CMS Girls’ School in Lagos, followed by Methodist Grammar School and King’s College, Lagos. His academic prowess was evident early on, as he took on leadership roles such as Secretary of the King’s College Society in 1957. Pursuing his passion for medicine, he attended Guy’s Hospital Medical School in London as an AC scholar, graduating with an MB, BS (Lond) in 1964, alongside diplomas in LRCP (Lond) and MRCS (Eng).
Academic Achievements
Olukayode’s thirst for knowledge led him to undertake postgraduate studies in Britain as a Commonwealth Medical Scholar from 1968 to 1970. In 1969, he became the first-ever recipient of the D.T.M.&H (Edinburgh) with distinction, earning the Greig Medal in Tropical Medicine. His academic journey continued with a Certificate in Epidemiology and Medical Statistics from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in 1970, and later, a Certificate in Immunology from the University of Ibadan in 1975. He was awarded an M.D. degree from London University in 1976.
Professional Career
Olukayode’s professional career began as an Hon. Assistant Lecturer in Medicine at St. Thomas’s Hospital Medical School in London from 1966 to 1967. He joined the academic staff of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ibadan in 1970 as a Lecturer Grade I. His dedication and expertise saw him rise to the rank of Senior Lecturer in 1973 and Professor in 1976. Since 1970, he has also served as a Consultant Physician at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
Contributions to Medicine
Throughout his career, Professor Oyediran has made significant contributions to the field of medicine through his research and publications. He is the author of numerous papers and has served on the editorial panels of several esteemed journals, including Tropical Doctor and the West African Journal of Medicine. His research has influenced medical practices and policies, particularly in the areas of tropical medicine and public health.
Roles and Responsibilities
At the University of Ibadan, Professor Oyediran has held numerous positions of responsibility, including Head of the Department of Preventive and Social Medicine (1976-79), Chairman of the Board of Health (1976-79), and Chairman of the Council Consultative Committee on Community Development (1977-82). His leadership extended beyond academia, as he served on several national medical panels, including the Kwara State Health Management Board.
Community Service
Professor Oyediran’s commitment to his community is evident through his involvement in various local and religious organizations. He has served as a member of the Church Committee at Iyeru-Okin African Church in Offa, Secretary of All Saints’ Church in Jericho, Ibadan, and as a member of the Board of Governors at Methodist High School, Ibadan. His efforts have significantly contributed to community health and education.
International Influence
On the international stage, Professor Oyediran has worked with the World Health Organization (WHO) on several panels and is currently a member of the WHO Expert Advisory Panel on Parasitic Diseases (Schistosomiasis). His global influence extends to his roles as Vice-President of the Association of Public Health Schools in Africa, Asia, and Oceania (1977-79) and Secretary-General of the West African College of Physicians (1980-84). He currently serves as the Executive Secretary of the West African Postgraduate Medical College.
Honors and Awards
Professor Oyediran’s contributions have been recognized with numerous national and international awards. He has been elected to the Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of London (FRCP) and the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (FRCPE). Additionally, he has received the Fellowship of the Nigeria Medical Council in Public Health (FMCPH) and the Foundation Fellowship of the West African College of Physicians (FWACP).
Family Life
Professor Oyediran has been happily married to Omotola Olubunmi (née Awolowo) since 1963. Their marriage is blessed with three daughters and one son. The support and love of his family have been instrumental in his career and community service, providing a solid foundation for his numerous achievements.
Legacy
Professor (Chief) A.B.O. Olukayode Oyediran’s legacy is one of dedication, service, and excellence. His impact on the medical field, both in Nigeria and globally, is profound. His contributions to community health and education in Offa and beyond have left a lasting impression. He continues to inspire future generations of medical professionals and community leaders.
Personal Philosophy and Values
At the core of Professor Oyediran’s work are his beliefs in excellence, service, and the importance of community. He approaches medicine with a holistic view, understanding that health is intertwined with social and environmental factors. His commitment to public health and education reflects his deep-seated values of giving back and improving the lives of others.
Challenges and Triumphs
Throughout his career, Professor Oyediran has faced numerous challenges, from the rigors of medical training to the demands of academic and community leadership. However, his perseverance and dedication have seen him overcome these obstacles, achieving remarkable success and making significant contributions to his field.
Professor (Chief) A.B.O. Olukayode Oyediran stands as a shining example of what dedication to one’s field and community can achieve. His extensive work in medicine, his contributions to public health, and his service to both local and international communities have left an indelible mark. Offa and the world at large have been greatly enriched by his efforts.
