By Adekunle Oluwafunmilayo
The ancient town of Isonyin in Ijebu North East Local Government Area of Ogun State is in a celebratory mood following the appointment of one of its illustrious sons, Prof. Olurotimi John Badero, as a Distinguished Fellow and Visiting Professor of Medicine at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The prestigious appointment is in recognition of Prof. Badero's exceptional contributions to medicine, groundbreaking achievements in cardiology and nephrology, and his unwavering commitment to medical education, research and mentorship.
Prof. Badero, a globally acclaimed Nigerian-American physician, is widely recognised as the world's first and only board-certified interventional cardionephrologist - a rare specialty that combines advanced expertise in heart and kidney interventions. His pioneering work has earned him international respect and placed Nigeria prominently on the global medical map.
The appointment is particularly significant for Isonyin, as Prof. Badero is believed to be the first indigene of the community to attain the rank of Professor of Medicine, a feat widely regarded as a source of immense pride for the town and Ogun State.
Based in the United States, Prof. Badero is the Chief Executive Officer of Cardiac Renal & Vascular Associates in Jackson, Mississippi. He also serves as Clinical Head and Director of the Interventional Cardiology Programme and Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Iwosan Lagoon Hospitals, Lagos, where he continues to contribute to the advancement of specialist cardiovascular care in Nigeria.
According to the University of Lagos, the appointment reflects Prof. Badero's outstanding academic credentials, wealth of international experience and dedication to developing future generations of medical professionals.
In his new role, he will mentor resident doctors and consultant cardiologists, promote collaborative research and support the adoption of global best practices in medical education and healthcare delivery.
The Saderiren of Isonyin, His Royal Highness, Oba Abdulrasheed Omotayo Cossy Salami, Ilufemiloye I, described the appointment as a landmark achievement for the entire Isonyin community. The monarch said Prof. Badero has once again demonstrated that excellence, hard work and dedication remain the hallmarks of Isonyin sons and daughters, expressing confidence that his new role would inspire younger generations to pursue academic and professional excellence, describing the appointment as another testament to the abundant human resources and intellectual capacity for which Isonyin is renowned.
Nigerians and demonstrate that with determination, integrity and hard work, excellence is attainable regardless of one's background.
As Distinguished Fellow and Visiting Professor of Medicine, Prof. Badero is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening specialist medical training, promoting cutting-edge research and facilitating international collaboration that will further enhance healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
His appointment has been widely celebrated by the people of Isonyin, Ogun State and Nigerians across the globe as another shining example of the immense contributions of Nigerians in the Diaspora to national development.
The entire university board congratulates Prof. Olurotimi John Badero on this remarkable milestone, wishing him continued success as he continues to advance medical science, mentor future generations and bring honour to Isonyin, Ogun State and Nigeria
