Tribute to Prof Olatunji

I came to know Prof Olatunji about 26 years ago when I started my residency in the department of Haematology. God used him for me as a helper of destiny. He took me like a daughter and was not only interested in my academic/professional progress but also in my spiritual and family welfare. He was a good mentor, role model and a source of inspiration to me and my colleagues who were under his tutelage during our residency program. He imparted knowledge and professional skills to us under a very friendly and Christianly atmosphere.

I remember those days when he used to review slides with us in his office, they were impactful. We all had free access to him both at work and at his residence in Adewole Estate then. He was an amazing project supervisor and did not only play a supervisory role but also helped in analyzing our data. He taught me how to write manuscripts and journal articles. Almost all the papers I submitted for promotion to the post of a senior Lecturer were co-authored with him.

Even after he left Ilorin for Sagamu, I still consulted him for professional/academic and spiritual advice. As a mentor, he has written several letters of recommendation for me, one of which enabled me to win a grant from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The story of my life as a physician and academic cannot be complete without him. His wife has also been such a blessing to me. Thank you and God bless you, ma for your love and care.

“Oga”, I congratulate and celebrate you at seventy and retirement. I pray God will continue to renew your strength like an eagle and grant you peace continually. He will satisfy you with long life in good health and prosperity. More grace and greater heights in Jesus name. Prof. Hannah O. Olawumi Junior colleague and Professor of Haematology.