The Department of Paediatrics, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, commemorated the 2025 World Diabetes Day with a two-day programme aimed at raising awareness and improving diabetes care among children and adolescents.
The event began with a sensitisation exercise at the marketplace on Friday, 14th November 2025, and concluded with a lecture series on Saturday, 15th November 2025, at the Prof. J. B. E. Elusiyan Seminar Room. The programme drew the participation of top management staff, healthcare workers, patients, and caregivers.
In his opening address, the Chief Medical Director of OAUTHC, Prof. John Okeniyi, welcomed participants with great enthusiasm and a strong sense of responsibility. He noted that this year’s theme underscores that diabetes affects individuals across all age groups from diabetic pregnant women to their unborn children. He emphasised that diabetes is a serious condition that requires vigilance, compassion, and coordinated care from birth through childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age.
Prof. Okeniyi commended the Department of Paediatrics and the Endocrine Unit, led by Dr. Festus Akeredolu, for organising the programme.
Delivering his welcome remarks, Dr. Festus Akeredolu, a Paediatric Endocrinologist, expressed appreciation for the unwavering support of OAUTHC management, the Nursing Services, and all invited guests. He noted that the 2025 World Diabetes Day focuses on overall well-being, stressing that diabetes care goes beyond taking insulin or medication. According to him, the programme was designed to educate patients on healthy eating and physical exercise, which are essential components of effective diabetes management.
The first lecture, presented by Dietician Mrs. Adetutu Akinnifesi, highlighted the role of healthy eating in managing diabetes among children and adolescents. She explained that proper nutrition helps maintain stable blood glucose levels, prevents fatigue, supports healthy growth, and provides energy for learning and daily activities. She emphasised that a balanced diet, regular meal times, and correct insulin use help young people living with diabetes stay strong, healthy, and confident. She concluded humorously, saying, “Healthy eating supports healthy living, and a healthy you is a happy you.”
A second lecture delivered by Physiotherapist Mrs. Omowumi Appolinaire focused on the importance of physical activity in diabetes management. She stressed that early detection in children and adolescents is crucial for effective care. Despite challenges such as acute complications that may discourage physical activity, she stated that exercise remains a vital component of treatment.
She advised against sedentary lifestyles, explaining that physical activity improves insulin efficiency, promotes healthy weight, enhances sleep, and boosts overall well-being. She encouraged caregivers to make exercise fun and social for children while monitoring blood sugar levels before, during, and after activity, ensuring proper hydration, and promoting good sleep hygiene.
The event also featured a panel discussion where patients and their families shared personal experiences, challenges, and successes in managing diabetes. A quiz session followed, with gifts presented to participants. The CMD further pledged a token of cash prizes each to 12 patients in attendance. In his closing remarks, Dr. Akeredolu reiterated the importance of healthy eating and regular physical activity for improved diabetes outcomes. He expressed gratitude to the management team, colleagues, patients, and caregivers for their participation and support.