Introduction
On October 18, 2018, Dr. Tunde Ajao initiated the organization of the 30th-year reunion for the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan (COMUI) MBBS/BDS Class of 1990 set by creating a WhatsApp group chat. The reunion was initially planned to take place in 2020.
The activities of the Reunion Organizing Committee began with their first virtual meeting held on December 7, 2018, using Skype. However, unforeseen circumstances arose with the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic starting in February 2020. This resulted in events and economies coming to a standstill worldwide, leading to the postponement of the reunion. The committee decided to wait for a time when some stability would be achieved following the expected resolution of the COVID-19 pandemic before rescheduling the event.
During the formation of the organizing committee, Dr. Eyelade was selected to chair the committee. Other members of the committee included Dr. Ajao, who took up the role of information technology, Dr. Adeniyi, who handled secretarial duties, Dr. Adebajo, who served as the treasurer, and Dr. Dairo, who was responsible for public relations.
- Modes of operation of the Committee
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting restrictions on physical gatherings and travel, the activities of the reunion organizing committee were primarily conducted virtually. The committee utilized WhatsApp chats as the main mode of communication, along with intermittent Skype or Zoom virtual meetings.
- Post-COVID-19 Activities
Reunion organizing activities resumed in earnest in February 2022. The committee maintained communication through the WhatsApp group chat and conducted intermittent Zoom meetings.
A courtesy visit to the Provost, COMUI on March 13, 2023, changed the focus of the symposium from “Medical Education” to “Celebrating the Class of 1990” and speakers were invited from among class members. The speakers and their topics at the scheduled symposium (Friday, 29 April, 2023) were as follows:
|
S/No |
Speaker |
Topic |
|
I |
Dr. ‘Bunmi Afonja |
In Search of the Cure: Gene Therapy in Sickle Cell Disease |
|
II |
Prof. Biobele Brown |
Current Management in Sickle Cell Diseases in Nigeria, Integrating Gene Therapy? |
|
III |
Dr. Charles Ilesanmi |
Successful Private Medical and Dental Practice in Nigeria: From Vision to Reality |
|
IV |
Dr. Bolanle Sogade |
Birth Centre for Natural Delivery Foundation (BCNDF): Promoting collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, educators, and technicians to service women in rural communities and developing countries |
- Reunion Activities: April 27 - April 30, 2023
Day 1: Thursday, 27 April, 2023: Meet & Greet
The UCH, Ibadan-based colleagues, such as Dr. Eyelade, Prof. Oladokun, his wife, Dr. Victoria Okoje, and Prof. Brown, warmly received visiting class members at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Jericho, Ibadan. The event started at 5:45 pm and began with the presence of a live band, providing light music to create a pleasant ambience. The dishes provided included light meals and cocktail drinks.
Total Attendee = 15
Day 2A: Friday, 28 April, 2023: Symposium
The Symposium was preceded by a courtesy visit to the Provost, COMUI. Prof.Olayinka O. Omigbodun where members of the College of Medicine’s Management Team were introduced including the Secretary to the College, the Financial Controller, and the Medical Librarian. Also, members of the class of 1990 present at the event introduced themselves including the following: Dr. Olayinka Eyelade, Prof. Adesina Oladokun, Dr. J.A. Adeniyi, Prof. B.J. Brown, Dr. Victoria Okoje, Dr. Adewumi Adanlawo, Dr.Olatunde Ajao, Dr. Peter Oguntolu, Dr. Oluyinka Adediji, Dr. Charles Ilesanmi, Dr. ‘Bunmi Afonja, Dr. ‘Bolanle Sogade, Prof. Ndubueze Ezemba; and Dr. Moji Arulefela.
The Provost warmly welcomed the members of the class of 1990, acknowledging the timeliness of the reunion. The Provost recognized that the event would serve as motivation and inspiration for the current medical and dental students who were facing various challenges, including a lack of basic amenities such as water supply and inconsistent electricity.
The Symposium itself began at 10:42 am, and was anchored by Dr. J.A. Adeniyi and Dr. Mojisola Arulefela assisted by the M.C., Dr. O.K. Adebayo (Consultant Anaesthetist and Lecturer in the Department of Anaesthesia, COMUI).
The occasion was chaired by Prof. E.O. Otolorin, Chairman, ICOMAA, Worldwide. Special Guests present at the symposium included the The Provost, COMUI, Prof. Olayinka O. Omigbodun (Chief Host), The CMD, UCH, Ibadan, Prof. J.A. Otegbayo (Co-Host) ably represented by Dr. Taiwo Soyinka; the Deputy CMAC Clinical Services, UCH, Ibadan; the Dean of Faculty of Clinical Sciences Prof. T.O. Ogundiran ably represented by Prof. Charles Bekibele; the Dean of Faculty of Dentistry, Prof. Bamidele Kolude. Medical elders who witnessed the occasion included: Prof. A.B.O. Desalu, Prof. A.O.G. Adeuja, Prof. Kikelomo Osinusi, Prof Olaitan Soyannwo, Prof. Wura Shokunbi, Dr. Tokunbo Abiose and Dr. Mrs. Adekemi Otolorin, National President, Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN). Also in attendance was Dr. ‘Wale Lasisi, the Chairman, Nigerian Medical Association, Oyo State.
Dr. J.A. Adeniyi gave the opening speech while the LOC Chair, Dr. Olayinka Eyelade, welcomed guests and old classmates to the event. The Chairman gave a welcome address and goodwill messages were delivered by the Provost, the CMD, UCH, Ibadan and the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences.
During the event, the members of the MBBS/BDS Class of 1990 distinguished themselves by wearing the "adire" muffler provided by Dr. Tunji Adeniyi, which set them apart from other guests in attendance. This added a unique touch to their presence at the event.
The Symposium featured four speakers who presented their allocated topics with eloquence, earning applause from the audience. The speakers included Dr. 'Bunmi Afonja, Prof. B.J. Brown, Dr. Charles Ilesanmi, and Dr. 'Bola Sogade. Their presentations were well-received by the audience, and their knowledge and expertise were appreciated. Following the presentations, a question-and-answer session allowed for further engagement and interaction between the speakers and the audience. Raffle tickets were drawn at intervals, providing an opportunity for medical and dental students in attendance to win prizes. Fifteen lucky students received gifts in cash and kind, including portable devices, adding excitement to the event.
A ceremonial cheque of $15,000 USD was presented to the Provost and Chairman of ICOMAA (International Conference of Medical Alumni Associations) worldwide as a pledged donation to the COMUI hostel project.
The event was transmitted live on YouTube and via Zoom by the College of Medicine Information Technology Unit (ITU) and Biomedical Communication Centre (BCC). The event came to a close at 1:50 pm.
Attendance: Members of Class of 1990 - 20; Other Professional: 29; Students: 123
Day 2B - Friday 28 April, 2023: Oka Lo’ogun Luncheon Event
This event, sponsored by Dr. John A. Adeniyi, was spectacular. Sumptuous local Ibadan dishes and assorted soups and proteins were provided by Kole-Event. Yoruba rendition (Ewi) on “Oriki Amala” was provided by Dr. Kehinde Adigun, a Consultant Family Physician at UCH, Ibadan and light music was provided to entertain guests.
The 2nd-day event was rounded up with a tour of UCH and UI Campuses with Prof. Adesina Oladokun as the Tour Guide.
Day 3A: Saturday 29 April 2023
A picnic at Agodi Gardens, Ibadan commenced at 11:02 am. It featured the Class of 1990 ladies clad in uniform “Ankara” (aso-ebi) material while their male counterparts wore matching blue “adire” tops provided by Dr. Yewande Dairo. Light music was provided by a live band rending local songs including that of various Yoruba ethnic groups e.g. Oriki Ibadan, Oyo, Egba, Ijesha, Ogbomosho, Ondo, Oke-Ogun, Saki and others. Members of COMUI MBBS/BDS class of 1990 sets danced to various tunes in the popular Nigerian “Owambe” style to show their joy and happiness.
Day 3B: Saturday 29, April 2023
The Gala dinner took place at Oduduwa Hall in Golden Tulip Hotel and began at 7:00 pm. The program was anchored by Dr. J.A. Adeniyi and Dr. Mojisola Arulefela. Dignitaries at this event included Prof. E.O. Otolorin and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Adekemi Otolorin; Prof. Olaitan Soyannwo; Dr. J.K. Ladipo and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Moji Ladipo; and Prof. F.A. Adeniyi, the Deputy Provost of COMUI, and his wife, Dr. Mrs. Yetunde Adeniyi. Their presence added prestige and significance to the event.
Local dishes were served, providing a taste of the region's culinary delights. The attendees were treated to light entertainment, during which various dancing steps were showcased, adding liveliness and enjoyment to the evening.
At the dinner, the ladies of the Class of 1990 graciously adorned the "Aso-Oke" head tie, which was provided by Dr. Mojisola Arulefela. The male members of the class wore the "Aso-Oke" piece as a neck scarf. The uniformity in attire was made possible through the efforts of Dr. Faith Osime, who designed the head ties using the same "Aso-Oke" fabric.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to deserving members of the Class of 1990. Dr. John Adetunji Adeniyi received the "Class Ambassador" award, recognizing his exemplary representation of the class. Dr. Omowumi Olurin received the "Latecomer" award, humorously acknowledging her seven-hour journey in the Lagos-Ibadan traffic. Other awards were presented, including the "Most Travelled Classmate" to Dr. Tito Adebajo and the "Buga Queen" award to Dr. Faith Osime, among others. These awards celebrated the unique qualities and achievements of the individuals within the class, creating a sense of appreciation and camaraderie among the attendees.
Day 4: Sunday 30 April, 2023
Departure: Light Breakfast at Golden Tulip Hotel and departure of guests to their various destinations.
- Appreciation
Our sincere gratitude goes to each and every member of the LOC as listed above for their significant financial support and the sacrifices made to ensure the success of the 33rd Reunion activities in Ibadan. May the good Lord reward your labor of love.
We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Chairman at the Symposium, Prof. E.O. Otolorin, President of ICOMAA worldwide, and his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Adekemi Otolorin. Our gratitude goes to the Provost, COMUI, Prof. Olayinka O. Omigbodun, who served as our Chief host, and Prof. J.A. Otegbayo, the Co-host. We are most grateful to all our esteemed medical elders who graced the various events, offering their moral support.
We thank all our class members who generously donated in cash and kind, and in words of encouragement to ensure the success of the program. Your contributions were invaluable and greatly appreciated.
Conclusion: In general, the three days of the reunion were packed with joyful activities, delighting all participants. The COMUI MBBS/BDS Class of 1990 was able to contribute its quota to the development of its Alma Mater.
Signed 17th May, 2023
Dr. Olayinka Eyelade
Chair
On behalf of the Organizing Committee
Members of Organizing Committee
- Olayinka Eyelade (Ibadan, Nigeria) - Chairperson
- Olatunde Ajao (UK)
- Yewande Dairo (USA)
- B.J. Brown (Ibadan, Nigeria)
- Adesina Oladokun (Ibadan, Nigeria)
- Tito Adebajo (UK)
- Victoria Okoje (Ibadan, Nigeria)
- T.J. Adeniyi (USA),
- Moji Arulefela (UK)
- Ruka Ajibola-Bakare (Lagos, Nigeria)
- Charles Ilesanmi (Abuja, Nigeria)
- Dolapo Tejumola (Ibadan, Nigeria)
- Olusoji Adeyanju (Ibadan, Nigeira)
- Gloria Lekwuwa (UK)
- G.Y. Bajowa (Canada)
- Akinsola Akinbiyi (Australia).
- Ndubueze Ezemba (Enugu, Nigeria)
- Jide Falana (USA)
- Faith Osime (USA)