The Hallmark of Labour Foundation (HLF) has announced that distinguished geneticist and hematologist, Professor Adeyinka Gladys Falusi, will be honoured with its prestigious Award for Outstanding Contribution in the Field of Science. The recognition underscores her far-reaching impact on medical research, healthcare advancement, and community development, as well as her role as Founder of the Sickle Cell Hope Alive Foundation (SCHAF).

The award will be presented on Saturday, April 18, 2026, as part of the Foundation’s 29th anniversary celebration at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, with proceedings scheduled to commence at 4:00 p.m. The ceremony is expected to attract a distinguished audience of stakeholders from Nigeria’s academic, scientific, and professional communities in celebration of a career defined by excellence, leadership, and service.

Professor Falusi is being recognised for her pioneering contributions to the study and management of genetic blood disorders, particularly sickle cell disease and alpha thalassaemia. Her groundbreaking research has significantly shaped clinical practice in Nigeria and enriched global understanding of hereditary diseases, improving health outcomes for countless patients across Africa.

A native of Efon Alaaye, her academic journey—from an early foundation in Chemistry to earning a doctorate in Hematology at the University of Ibadan—reflects decades of dedication to scientific inquiry and innovation. She is widely credited with establishing Nigeria’s first functional Institutional Ethics Committee and pioneering the development of national guidelines for ethical medical research, subsequently adopted across tertiary institutions.

Professional bodies have described the honour as both timely and well-deserved. The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World, Ibadan Branch, praised her as a foremost mentor and advocate for women in science, highlighting her sustained efforts in promoting the girl-child in STEM and nurturing generations of female scientists.

Beyond academia, Professor Falusi’s influence extends to grassroots health advocacy through SCHAF, which continues to provide vital support, awareness, and education for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disorder. The foundation is also spearheading initiatives to integrate sickle cell education into Nigeria’s secondary school curriculum.

Tributes have also come from the corporate and healthcare sectors. Dr. Akinwumi Fajola of Renaissance African Energy Company described her as a “quintessential leader” who has successfully bridged global academic excellence with community-focused impact.

Her numerous honours include recognition as a L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science laureate, Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science (FAS), Fellow and Council Member of the Academy of Medical Sciences (FAMedS), and recipient of the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM).

Family members and mentees have also paid glowing tributes, celebrating her as a symbol of resilience, integrity, and compassion. She has been married for over five decades (since 1969) to Professor Abiodun Falusi, a distinguished agricultural economist, and is widely admired for successfully balancing an illustrious academic career with a strong commitment to family life.

By honouring Professor Falusi, the Hallmark of Labour Foundation not only celebrates an exceptional scientist but also reinforces the enduring value of research, mentorship, and service in driving national development.