In a decisive move to bolster medical research in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa as the new Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR). Professor Obafunwa will succeed Professor Babatunde Salako, whose term concludes on July 23, 2024. The appointment is set to take effect from July 24, 2024.
President Tinubu has expressed his gratitude to Professor Salako for his dedicated service and contributions to the nation, highlighting his commitment and achievements during his tenure.
Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa brings an extensive and distinguished background to his new role. He earned his medical degree from the University of Lagos in 1980, followed by a specialization in Anatomic Pathology, graduating in May 1987. Furthering his expertise, he sub-specialized in Forensic Pathology in Scotland in 1991 and later obtained a law degree from England in 2004. Professor Obafunwa’s academic journey is adorned with numerous qualifications and memberships in prestigious professional bodies across the UK, USA, and Nigeria.
His international experience is noteworthy, having worked in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and the UK before returning to Nigeria in November 2004. He assumed the role of Professor of Forensic Pathology at the Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM). Professor Obafunwa has served as the Provost of LASUCOM, Chief Medical Examiner for Lagos State, and Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University. Prior to his recent appointment, he was the International Regional Advisor of the Royal College of Pathologists (UK) for Sub-Saharan Africa.
An accomplished academic, Professor Obafunwa has authored numerous scientific publications and contributed to several textbooks. His research interests encompass anatomic and forensic pathology, with ongoing projects in forensic entomology and taphonomy at the University of Nebraska, USA.
President Tinubu has high expectations for Professor Obafunwa, anticipating that his vast experience and qualifications will significantly advance the NIMR’s mission. The President envisions NIMR under Professor Obafunwa’s leadership to spearhead research into critical public health issues in Nigeria, enhance the dissemination of research findings, and foster an environment conducive to health research and training in collaboration with federal and state health ministries.
