Pioneer, Mentor, Icon: CMUL Honours Prof. Josbert T.K. Duncan
The College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), today, Wednesday, April 22, 2026, hosted a well-attended Commendation Service in honour of late Professor Josbert Thomas Kofi Duncan, a pioneer Clinical and Radiation Oncologist whose contributions significantly shaped cancer care in Nigeria and West Africa.
The event drew an array of distinguished personalities, including the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folashade Ogunsola (represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development Services, Professor Afolabi Lesi), the Provost of CMUL, Professor Ademola Oremosu, the Chief Medical Director of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Professor Wasiu Adeyemo, and renowned Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie, among others.
In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor described Professor Duncan as a trailblazer and a foundational figure in the development of oncology practice in the region. She highlighted his enduring commitment to mentorship, noting that his investment in younger generations remains one of his most impactful legacies.
Professor Oremosu reflected on Professor Duncan’s early role in the College, emphasizing his contributions as one of the pioneering faculty members who advanced the use of radiation therapy in cancer treatment. He also acknowledged the professor’s role in introducing cutting-edge equipment at a time when such advancements were rare in the region, describing his life as one marked by purpose and fulfillment.
Following this, the Chief Medical Director of LUTH, Professor Wasiu Adeyemo, lauded Professor Duncan’s pivotal role in the establishment of radiotherapy services at LUTH, particularly his contribution to bringing the first radiotherapy machine to the institution.
He also highlighted Professor Duncan’s enduring legacy in mentorship, noting his instrumental role in training generations of oncologists who continue to advance cancer care in Nigeria.
Professor Giwa-Osagie, in his tribute, spoke of the late professor’s vibrant personality, compassion, and shared history with him, including their time at King’s College, Lagos.
His children, Mofe Duncan and Erejuwa Gbadebo, delivered heartfelt remarks, reflecting on their father’s life, values, and the profound role he played in their lives. They described him as a principled and deeply supportive figure, as well as a loving father and grandfather whose influence extended beyond his professional achievements into his family and personal relationships.
Speakers consistently highlighted Professor Duncan’s pioneering achievements, his dedication to excellence, and his profound impact on generations of medical professionals. His approach to academic and professional excellence has since been encapsulated in what many referred to as the “Duncan Line” — a benchmark representing discipline, mastery, and distinction in medical practice and scholarship.
The Commendation Service was organised by the Department of Radiation Biology, Radiotherapy and Radiodiagnosis (RBRR), CMUL. It brought together academics, healthcare professionals, students, family members, and associates, all united in celebrating a life of remarkable service, leadership, and enduring legacy.
The event concluded on a reflective note, with attendees acknowledging that Professor Duncan’s contributions will continue to inspire excellence in medicine, mentorship, and service for generations to come.
Report: Mr. Seyi Aluko
Photography: Mrs. Abosede Adedeji
