Renowned Nigerian geneticist, Adeyinka Gladys Falusi, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Role Model Award’ by the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF), in recognition of her outstanding contributions to medical research and national development.

The award was conferred on Saturday, April 18, 2026, as part of the Foundation’s 29th anniversary celebrations held at Lagos Oriental Hotel, drawing a distinguished audience of academics, professionals, and industry leaders. Professor Falusi was ranked third on the evening’s Roll Call of Honour, underscoring her standing among Nigeria’s most accomplished figures.

In a statement, the HLF Executive Secretary, Patricia Otuedon-Arawore, explained that the award recognises individuals whose professional achievements have significantly impacted national development. She noted that recipients are carefully selected as “Great Nigerian Role Models,” whose lives serve as inspiration for future generations.

The recognition crowns decades of Professor Falusi’s pioneering work in human genetics, particularly in research on Sickle Cell Disease and Alpha Thalassaemia, which has contributed immensely to healthcare advancement in Nigeria and beyond. HLF commended her for her integrity, dedication, and lasting impact on global health.

Delivering her citation, Oladapo A. Ashiru, Chairman and Chief Medical Director of the Medical ART Center, described Falusi as a trailblazer whose work has significantly advanced human genetics and healthcare delivery across Africa. He highlighted her role in mentoring generations of healthcare professionals and expanding the frontiers of scientific research.

Also speaking, former President of the Nigerian Academy of Science, Okechukwu Ani, lauded the honouree as an icon of excellence, noting that her achievements represent a milestone for women in science. He emphasised that her contributions continue to inspire pride within the scientific community.

Chairman of the occasion, Emeka Anyaoku, remarked that the HLF honour remains highly coveted, reserved for individuals who have attained the pinnacle of their careers with exemplary character. Similarly, Christopher Kolade, Chairman of the Foundation, congratulated Professor Falusi, describing the award as a testament to her lifelong dedication and value to society.

Speaking after the ceremony, Professor Falusi expressed gratitude, describing the recognition as a validation of years of sacrifice and commitment. She underscored the importance of building role models to guide Nigeria’s youth and called for greater inclusion of women in leadership across academia and research.

The event attracted widespread commendation from colleagues, community leaders, and professional bodies. Among them, Akinwumi Fajola praised her enduring impact, particularly her continued advocacy for persons living with sickle cell disorder through her foundation.

Family members, including her husband, Abiodun Falusi, and their children, also expressed pride in her accomplishments, describing her as a symbol of resilience, excellence, and purpose.

With this honour, Professor Falusi joins an elite group of past recipients, including Umar Shehu, Grace Alele-Williams, Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, and Ben Nwabueze, further cementing her legacy as one of Nigeria’s foremost scientific icons.