SOGON Lagos president retires at 70, LASUCOM celebrates distinguished career

by · The Eagle Online

The President of the Lagos State Sector of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON), Professor Abidoye Gbadegesin, has formally retired from active service, with the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) celebrating his distinguished career.

The retirement brings to a close a distinguished career spanning decades in medical practice, academia, research, and mentorship.

The retirement of the renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist was marked by a valedictory and retirement ceremony organised by the Lagos State University College of Medicine on June 17, where colleagues, students, medical professionals, and family members gathered to celebrate his contributions to healthcare and medical education.

The retirement ceremony followed celebrations marking his 70th birthday on June 6, when family, friends, former classmates, professional associates, and well-wishers converged on Lagos to honour him. 

The celebrations began with a thanksgiving service at St John Catholic Church, Igando, followed by a well-attended reception attended by dignitaries from the medical profession, academia, business and public service.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gbadegesin is also a prince of the Agunloye Ruling House of Oyo and a grandson of Alaafin Bello Gbadegesin Ladigbolu II, one of the most revered monarchs in the history of the historic Oyo town.

Widely respected within Nigeria’s medical community, Gbadegesin currently serves as president of the Lagos State Sector of SOGON, one of the country’s foremost professional bodies dedicated to advancing women’s health, reproductive medicine and maternal care.

At the LASUCOM ceremony, tributes poured in from colleagues and associates who described him as a compassionate physician, accomplished scholar, dedicated teacher, and dependable mentor, whose influence extended beyond the classroom and consulting room.

The Provost of LASUCOM, Professor Olufemi Idowu, described the retiree as an accomplished academic whose contributions had left an enduring imprint on the institution and the medical profession.

According to him, Professor Gbadegesin’s commitment to excellence, passion for teaching and dedication to patient care positively impacted generations of students, resident doctors and healthcare professionals.

Idowu said: “Professor Gbadegesin’s career exemplifies the values of professionalism, diligence and service that LASUCOM stands for. 

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“His contributions to the training of healthcare professionals and the advancement of Obstetrics and Gynaecology will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.”

Other prominent figures who paid tribute included the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Ibrahim Mustapha, and Chief Medical Director of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Professor Adetokunbo Fabamwo.

Speakers reflected on his journey as a clinician, educator, and mentor, highlighting his role in training and guiding numerous doctors who have gone on to serve within and outside Nigeria.

The ceremony also featured a valedictory lecture delivered by Professor J. A. Olamijulo, titled: :How Safe is Motherhood with Assisted Reproductive Technology?” 

The lecture examined evolving issues in reproductive medicine and maternal healthcare while emphasising the need to sustain high standards in clinical practice, teaching and mentorship.

Throughout his career, Gbadegesin built a reputation as a strong advocate for quality maternal healthcare, reproductive health services and professional excellence. 

His work earned him recognition among colleagues and professional bodies within and beyond Lagos State.

Speaking at the ceremony, the retiring professor expressed gratitude to God, his family, colleagues, students, and the LASUCOM community for supporting him throughout his professional journey.

He encouraged younger doctors and academics to remain committed to excellence, integrity and continuous learning, stressing that the medical profession requires not only competence but also compassion and dedication to service.

Reflecting on his years in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, he described caring for women and families and mentoring younger healthcare professionals as some of the most fulfilling aspects of his career.

“Retirement, for me, is not an end but the beginning of another phase of service,” he said.

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