The pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo State, Emeritus Prof. Friday Okonofua, has described specialised medical universities as a transformative model for advancing higher education and healthcare delivery in Nigeria. He made this statement while delivering the first public lecture of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences at UNIMED, held at the institution’s Laje Campus.
Lecture on the Future of Specialised Medical Universities
Speaking on the topic: ‘The Future of Specialised Medical Universities in Nigeria: Progress, Challenges and Future Directions’, the renowned Obstetrics and Gynaecology scholar emphasised that the experience of UNIMED has shown that specialised medical institutions possess the capacity to bridge critical gaps in Nigeria’s healthcare workforce. He noted that these institutions can contribute significantly to national development.
Okonofua stressed that the sustainability of such institutions depends on their ability to combine specialised training with broader academic integration while embracing innovation and maintaining global standards. He added that with adequate support from stakeholders and government, specialised medical universities will play a leading role in shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria and beyond.
UNIMED VC Commends Foundation
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of UNIMED, Prof. Ebunoluwa Adejuyigbe, stated that specialised medical universities occupy a strategic place in strengthening healthcare delivery through innovation, interdisciplinary research, and the training of highly skilled professionals. According to her, institutions dedicated to medical sciences must remain adaptive, globally connected, and responsive to societal needs. She commended Okonofua for laying a solid foundation for UNIMED’s growth and development.
The Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Prof. Oluseyi Adejumo, noted that Nigeria has depended largely on conventional universities for healthcare training over the years. He highlighted the importance of specialised institutions in addressing the country’s healthcare challenges.
Olubadan Calls for Integration of Traditional Medicine
Meanwhile, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has called for the integration of traditional medicine with modern healthcare practice. He stated that such collaboration would enhance efficient, accessible, and affordable healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
The monarch made the call in a statement issued after a courtesy visit by the Executive Members of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (Oyo State Branch) to the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan. Oba Ladoja said traditional medicine remains effective, affordable, and widely accessible, stressing the need for its proper integration into the country’s healthcare system to strengthen medical delivery at all levels.
