Dr. Ibrahim Sebutu Bello marked the end of a distinguished career with a valedictory lecture on December 10, 2024, at the Clinical Skills Hall of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC).
The event drew colleagues, family members, friends, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate his remarkable contributions to healthcare.
Prof. Abubakar Sanusi, Head of the Renal Department and Chairman of the Occasion, commended Dr. Bello’s exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication throughout his tenure. He praised his professional excellence and innovative approach to healthcare delivery, which left an indelible mark on the institution.
Dr. Bello, a renowned family physician, is widely respected for his significant contributions to malaria eradication in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria. His professional journey was characterized by integrity, innovation, and a transformative impact on patient care and medical training. Early in his career, he revolutionized outpatient care by introducing a patient-sorting process and establishing a one-stop-shop model for general outpatient clinics, significantly reducing patient wait times.
Beginning his residency as the sole junior resident in February 1994, Dr. Bello rose through the ranks. He received his fellowship from the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) in October 2023 and became a consultant in June 2004. As Head of the Family Medicine Department, he implemented numerous strategies to enhance residency training and improve patient care. His mentorship produced over 30 consultants now practicing globally.
His legacy in malaria control includes serving on the Roll Back Malaria Project’s Steering Committee, earning the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP-UK) travel grant, and securing a Global Health Travel Award from the Gates Foundation. A prolific researcher, he has published over 50 articles in peer-reviewed journals and participated in numerous international conferences and workshops across South Africa, Uganda, and the UK.
During the event, colleagues, friends, and family members offered heartfelt tributes, highlighting his dedication to community development, professional excellence, and compassionate leadership.
In his farewell address, Dr. Bello emphasized the need for continued improvement in residency training and urged healthcare professionals to remain dedicated, diligent, and honest in their duties. He expressed profound gratitude to his wife, children, colleagues, and mentor, Professor Abioye-Kuteyi, for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Dr. Babatunde Afolabi, Chief Medical Director of Osun State University Teaching Hospital, described Dr. Bello as a compassionate and dedicated professional whose career has inspired many. He lauded Dr. Bello’s enduring legacy in healthcare and his positive influence on countless lives.
The valedictory ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including Prof. Josephine Eziyi, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, OAUTHC; Dr. Babatunde Afolabi, CMD of Osun State University Teaching Hospital; Prof. Abubakar Sanusi, Head of the Renal Department; Prof. Lateef Salawu, former Acting CMD, OAUTHC; and Director of Nursing Services, Mrs. Olabisi Ajayi.
