In a vibrant and forward-looking event, the Nigeria Journal of Health Sciences at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, celebrated 21 years of contributing to the field of health sciences.
The occasion was marked by an award recognition ceremony and fundraising event, with a compelling theme to address the “Issues and Challenges in Contemporary Medical Journals.”
The event drew a distinguished assembly of guests and scholars. Among them was the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Simeon Bamire, who was represented by Prof. Olufemi Koya, offered his hearty congratulations to the journal’s editorial team.
Prof. Bamire stressed the significance of periodic journal publications as a means to showcase the institution’s achievements to a broader audience. He emphasized the university’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance its image and promote its contributions to the world.
In a motivational address, the Vice-Chancellor encouraged aspiring professionals to start writing journals for publication early in their careers. He emphasized that taking this bold step need not wait until graduation.
The Chief Medical Director of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Prof. John Okeniyi, represented by Prof. Eniola Eziyi, Acting Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee, congratulated the awardees and urged them to intensify their efforts in publishing more journals.

Prof. Okeniyi underscored the pivotal role of journal publication in shedding light on the significant work taking place behind the scenes. He also stressed the importance of giving journals the widest possible publicity.
The host of the event, Prof. Babatope Kolawole, Provost, College of Health Sciences, commended the editorial board for their commitment to editing the journal while managing various other responsibilities.
He expressed gratitude to past editors and provosts of the college, and he extended appreciation to the guest speaker for sharing insights on the event’s theme.
The guest lecturer of the event, Prof. Gregory Erhabor, delivered an insightful presentation by meticulously addressing the challenges faced by contemporary medical journals.
He delved into issues such as funding, publication bias, peer review, communication of uncertainty, ethical considerations, quality control, and data sharing.
This celebratory event highlighted not only the journal’s enduring impact but also the dedication of the academic community to overcoming challenges and pushing the boundaries of knowledge in the field of health sciences.
Edited by: Kingsley Ogunne
Photographed by: Idris Adediran