The Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC) on Thursday, April 16, 2026 honoured its first Director and Head of Maintenance Services, Arc. Falilat Yetunde Olowu, at a colourful retirement ceremony marking the end of a distinguished career spanning 28 years.
The event, held at the Nightingale Hall, Nurses’ House, drew management staff, colleagues, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate a woman widely regarded as a visionary leader, mentor, and role model.
Arc. Olowu, who joined OAUTHC on November 6, 1997, rose through the ranks to become the pioneer Director of Maintenance Services, playing a pivotal role in shaping the department and strengthening institutional infrastructure. Her retirement signals the close of a legacy defined by excellence, innovation, and dedicated service.
Representing the Chief Medical Director, Prof. John Okeniyi, the Director of Internal Audit, Mr. Adewale Junaid, commended her commitment and prayed for God’s continued protection over her life and legacy.
The CMD later joined the event alongside the Director of Administration, Dr. Ayodeji Bobade, to formally present the Certificate of Retirement.
In a moment that captured the spirit of the occasion, the CMD shared a celebratory dance with Arc. Olowu, drawing applause from attendees in thanksgiving for a fulfilled career. In his remarks, Dr. Bobade described her as “a moving wealth of experience,” offering prayers for a fulfilling and impactful post-retirement life.
Tributes poured in highlighting her compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. Her daughter, Dr. Ikhlas Olowu, described her as “a loving and selfless mother,” reflecting the depth of her influence both at home and at work.
Born on November 5, 1967, Arc. Olowu began her academic journey at Marywood Primary School, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, and later attended Federal Government Girls College, Langtang in Plateau State. She proceeded to the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Architecture in 1991 and a Master’s degree in 1995. She later obtained an M.Phil. in 2017 and is currently pursuing a PhD.
A highly accomplished professional, she is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects and the Chartered Institute of Contract, Project and Facility Management. She served as Vice Chairperson of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Osun State Chapter (2005–2011), and has contributed to academia as a juror in the Department of Architecture at the Federal Polytechnic, Ede.
As gifts and commendations were presented in her honour, the atmosphere reflected deep appreciation for a trailblazer whose contributions will continue to resonate within and beyond OAUTHC.
Arc. Olowu retires not only as a pioneer but as a symbol of excellence, leadership, and enduring impact.
