On Saturday, July 5, 2025, friends, family, and colleagues gathered at the Ogunlesi Hall opposite the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, to celebrate the 80th birthday of the esteemed Professor Adeyinka Gladys Falusi. The event, was a vibrant celebration of her life and accomplishments, chaired by Professor A.O. Ilesanmi, former Chief Medical Director of UCH, and attended by a notable array of dignitaries, including several former Vice-Chancellors of University of Ibadan such as Prof. Ayodele Falase, Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, and Prof. Idowu Olayinka.
The bash was not only a personal milestone but also a showcase of Prof. Falusi’s remarkable contributions to academia and public health. The gathering included distinguished professors like Prof. Oluyemisi Bamgbose, Prof. Osuntokun, Prof. Afolabi Soyode, Prof. Foluso Okunmadewa, Prof. Tola Atinmo, and Prof. Atalabi Yusuf, alongside Dr. Marinho and other prominent medical professionals. The event also saw the presence of young captains of industry, highlighting the profound influence Prof. Falusi has had across various sectors.
A touching moment came with the attendance of her children—Professor Toyin Nwafor, Mrs. Titi Cole, Dr. Anu Osinusi, Mrs. Ebun Onagoruwa, and Engineer Ibukun Falusi—who, along with her sons-in-law Mr. Wale Cole and Mr. Chioma Nwafor, exemplify the legacy of achievement instilled by their mother. The celebration was further enriched by the presence of her grandchildren, symbolizing the family’s unity and the values Prof. Falusi has imparted to the next generation.
The highlight of the day included the launch of two significant books: "Voices: The Unheard Cry of the Unreached with Sickle Cell Disease" and "My Memoir: Giving God All the Glory – Part 2." The books were presented by Sir (Dr.) Babafemi Oye and Chief Olatunde Ashaolu, with the first part launched a decade ago when Prof. Falusi celebrated her 70th birthday. These publications reflect her ongoing commitment to advocacy for sickle cell awareness and her personal journey of faith and perseverance.
Professor Adeyinka Falusi, a PhD holder and a highly decorated academic with distinctions such as FAS, FAMedS, and NPOM, stands out as a L'Oreal - UNESCO Women in Science Laureate (Africa). As one of the most celebrated figures in Nigerian academia, she has made significant impacts for over 35 years in higher education and continues to serve as an Adjunct Staff member at the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan.
An active researcher with numerous grants and recent publications, Prof. Falusi is also the Executive Director and President of the Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF), Nigeria. Her unwavering dedication to research, mentorship, and community service has established her as a beloved mentor and role model.
The celebration of Prof. Falusi’s 80th birthday not only honored her vast contributions to science and health but also her role as a nurturing guide and inspiration to many. Her legacy continues to shape the future of medicine and public health in Nigeria.
