By Ayoola Olasupo
The Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria is set to usher in new leadership as it prepares to appoint Professor Joseph Ahaneku for a two-year tenure as president during its forthcoming convocation ceremony.
The Academy will also honour a Professor of Cardiology, Okechukwu Ogah, with a N10m Gold Medal Award for his immense contributions to medicine during the event.
Ahaneku, who is a fellow of the Academy, a former national president of the Association of Chemical Pathologists of Nigeria, and a professor of medicine and consultant cardiologist at the University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, previously served as Vice-Chancellor of the National University of Science and Technology, Abuja.
He will succeed the outgoing president, Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie.
Other programmes at the convocation will include the 2026 annual scientific conference, the 2nd Annual Ohwovoriole Memorial Lecture, the induction of new fellows, and the Academy’s annual general meeting.
Speaking at a pre-convocation press briefing held on Thursday at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos State, Giwa-Osagie said Ahaneku’s emergence would usher in a new phase of leadership for the organisation.
He described the transition as “the beginning of a new chapter of purposeful leadership, inclusivity, and renewed commitment to excellence in medical sciences in Nigeria.”
Giwa-Osagie disclosed that the ceremony will take place on October 30, 2026, at the Marriott Lagos Hotel, Ikeja, where speakers will address the conference theme, “The Genetics of Non-Communicable Diseases: Integrating Science into Clinical Care,” from their respective specialties.
“The Academy instituted the Gold Medal Award to celebrate individuals whose work has demonstrated sustained impact, innovation, integrity, and national or international distinction,” he said.
“The award reflects the Academy’s commitment to promoting excellence in medical scholarship, advancing health research, strengthening professional leadership, and improving health outcomes in Nigeria and beyond.
“The inaugural awardee of this prestigious award is Prof. Okechukwu Ogah, a Professor of Cardiology at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan. He will be receiving a cash prize of N10 million alongside a medal.”
He added, “The Academy remains steadfast in its commitment to harnessing medical expertise, scientific knowledge and innovation to improve the health and well-being of Nigerians. Through its research, professional expertise and policy engagement, the Academy will continue to contribute evidence and informed perspectives to the advancement of healthcare in Nigeria.
“We welcome and actively seek strategic partnerships with government, public institutions, professional body development partners and local and international organisations to strengthen medical education, support impactful research and promote improvements in healthcare delivery. Guided by its mission and vision, the Academy remains committed to building a healthier Nigeria and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of medicine and human welfare.”
Also, the Foundation President of the organisation, Prof. Oladapo Ashiru, noted that the events underscored the Academy’s unwavering commitment to advancing medical science, celebrating excellence, and strengthening leadership in the health sector for national development.
He said, “We have lined up eminent speakers and highly impactful scientific sessions. We are confident that this year’s convocation will not only uphold the noble traditions of the Academy but will set a new benchmark.”
