On Saturday, July 5, 2025, family, friends, and colleagues gathered at Ogunlesi Hall, opposite the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, to celebrate the 80th birthday of the esteemed Professor Adeyinka Gladys Falusi. The event was a vibrant tribute to her life, accomplishments and a celebration of the family legacy built together with her husband, Prof Abiodun Falusi. The event was chaired by Professor A.O. Ilesanmi, former Chief Medical Director of UCH, and attended by a distinguished group of dignitaries, including former Vice-Chancellors of the University of Ibadan among who were: Prof. Ayodele Falase, Prof. Olufemi Bamiro, and Prof. Idowu Olayinka.
The celebration was not only a personal milestone but also a showcase of Prof. Falusi’s remarkable contributions to academia and public health. Among the attendees were respected academics including Prof. Ayo Bamgbose, Prof.Mrs Osuntokun, Prof. Afolabi Soyode, Prof. Foluso Okunmadewa, Prof & Prof. Mrs Atinmo, Prof. & Mrs Ogunmola Prof. C.P Babalola, Prof. Mrs Atalabi, Prof Yusuf, alongside Prof Olajide Ajayi, Dr. Marinho and other prominent medical professionals. The event also welcomed young captains of industry, highlighting the broad influence Prof. Falusi has had across multiple sectors. The olori HRM Eyegbogbo Roseline Aladejare of Efon Alaaye, other indigenes of Efon Alaaye, and members of the Falusi extended family were all present. Many family friends, mentors, mentees, members of her church Societies, and community were also in attendance.
The worship service was led by Ven Dr. V. I. Oladele and organised by a high caliber of clergies including The Right Rev. Collins Babalola, The Rt Rev. Obijole, and Venerables, giving God all the thanks for HIs blessings.
A touching moment came with the presence of her children—Professor Toyin Nwafor, Mrs. Titi Cole, Dr. Anu Osinusi, Mrs. Ebun Onagoruwa, and Engineer Ibukun Falusi—who, along with her sons-in-law Mr. Wale Cole and Mr. Chioma Nwafor, exemplify the legacy of excellence and values. Her grandchildren also graced the occasion, symbolizing the family’s unity and the enduring impact and legacy of Prof. Abiodun and Adeyinka Falusi across generations.
The highlight of the day included the launch of two significant books: "VOICES: The Unheard Cry of the Unreached with Sickle Cell Disease" presented by Sir (Dr.) Babafemi Oye and Chief Olatunde Ashaolu; and My MEMOIR: "Giving God All the Glory — Part 2". The first part of the Memoir was launched a decade ago during her 70th birthday celebration. Both books underscore her ongoing commitment to sickle cell advocacy and her personal journey of faith and service.
Professor Adeyinka Falusi, a Ph.D. holder and highly decorated academic, holds distinctions Fellow Academy of Science (FAS), Fellow and now Board Member Academy of Medical Sciences (FAMedS), and National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM). She is a L’Oréal-UNESCO for Women in Science Laureate (Africa & the Mediterranena Countries). She stands among the most celebrated figures in Nigerian academia. Her career spanned 37 years of dedicated service to the University of Ibadan from 1973 to 2010, and she continues to serve as an Adjunct Staff member at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan.
Prof. Falusi is the Founder and Trustee of the Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF), and continues even in that capacity to be an active researcher, with publications and grants on Genetics, Ethics of Research across the African continent. Her daughter, Professor Toyin Nwafor, now serves as President. Her unwavering dedication to research, mentorship, and community service has firmly established her as a beloved mentor and enduring role model.
The celebration of Prof. Falusi’s 80th birthday not only honored her vast contributions to science and health but also her role as a nurturing guide and inspiration to many. Her legacy continues to shape the future of medicine, research, and public health in Nigeria.
