CMUL HOLDS COMMENDATION SERVICE IN HONOUR OF LATE EMERITUS PROFESSOR OLUSOGA ADEKUNLE SOFOLA

The College of Medicine, University of Lagos, held a tribute in honour of the late Emeritus Professor Olusoga Adekunle Sofola on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, in the Old Great Hall of the College.

The event, attended by prominent figures from academia, family, friends, and clergy, celebrated the life and achievements of Professor Sofola, a distinguished professor of Physiology whose career spanned over four decades.

Born on January 24, 1947, Professor Sofola began his academic career as a lecturer II in the Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos in 1973 and rose through the ranks to become a professor of physiology in 1984.

Professor Sofola has served in numerous academic and administrative roles, including Head of the Department of Physiology, 1983–84; Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, 1986–1990; Provost, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, 1994–1998; and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic & Research), University of Lagos, from 2003 to 2007. He was also the Ag. Vice Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University from 2009 to 2010 and the Vice Chancellor of EkoUNIMED.

Tributes poured in from various quarters, highlighting Professor Sofola’s impact as a teacher, mentor, and leader. Professor Folasade T. Oganiola, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, praised his dedication to excellence and his role in fostering good relations within the academic community.

The event also featured heartfelt speeches from family members, colleagues, and former students who spoke of his mentorship and his humane approach to leadership. Clergymen offered prayers for the family and colleague for comfort and forbearance to bear the loss.

Emeritus Professor Olusoga Adekunle Sofola is survived by his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Yemi Sofola, and their three children and grandchildren. His contributions to physiology, medical education, and community service have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and the global academic community.

The solemn event was attended by the Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University; Professor Ibironke Olatunji-Bello; Vice-Chancellor, Eko UNIMED, Professor G.O.G. Awosanya, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics and Research; Professor Ayodele Atsenuwa, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Management Services), Professor Lucian Chukwu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, (Development Services. Professor Bolanle Oboh, Chief Medical Director, LUTH, Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo, Deputy Provost, Professor D. O. Odebiyi, College Secretary; Dr. O. Obafemi-moses, Director of Finance; Dr. S.A. Akinade, Director of Engineering Services; Engr. O. Oloyede, Dean, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Professor Folasade Akinsola, Dean, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Professor O. daCosta, Dean, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Professor O. Akinloye; serving and retired colleagues as well as members of staff and students, among others.