Ogbomoso Club Hails Prof. Adelowo, Seeks National Honour For W’Africa’s First Rheumatologist

The Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, a group of astute professionals, academics and entrepreneurs, has recently celebrated one of its own, Professor Adelowo Olufemi Oladipo, the first Rheumatologist in West Africa.

They also called on the Federal Government to recognise Prof. Adelowo with National Honour for making the country proud.

Prof. Adelowo was recognised for his exceptional contributions to the field of Rheumatology with the prestigious APLAR Master Award, conferred by the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR). He is the first African to receive this honour.

The award was presented to the Ogbomoso-born scholar in recognition of his remarkable contributions to rheumatology, particularly in teaching, research, and professional service within the APLAR region.

Adelowo, a Professor of Medicine, Consultant Physician, and Rheumatologist, has held numerous academic and leadership roles both locally and internationally.

He served as the President of the African League of Associations for Rheumatology (AFLAR) from 2014 to 2019 and as chairman of the Executive Committee of the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR) from 2015 to 2016.

Throughout his career, Prof. Adelowo has made a significant impact in Nigeria and beyond, establishing rheumatology clinics at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), and University of Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH). He has supervised over 30 FMCP and FWACP dissertations and trained more than 55 rheumatologists in Nigeria, three of whom are now Professors. Additionally, over 25 of his trainees are consultant rheumatologists in Nigerian teaching and specialist hospitals, while 15 others practise in the USA, Canada, the UK, and Kenya.

At a special event in Lagos to honour his achievements, President of the Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, Joel Owoade, praised Prof. Adelowo as an exemplary leader whose dedication, commitment, and hard work have made him a model for others.

“Professor Adelowo is a shining light, and we are proud to be associated with him. We will continue to celebrate him and others who are making Ogbomoso and Nigeria proud in their careers and service to both the nation and the international community,” Owoade said.

The club presented Prof. Adelowo with a special award in recognition of his achievements and as an inspiration for younger generations to follow in his footsteps.