Theme: Vision Begins Early: Building Statewide Systems for Paediatric Eye Care
Date: Wednesday, 13th August 2025
Venue: Paul Hendrickse Lecture Theatre, UCH, Ibadan
Time: 11:00 am
The valedictory program held in honor of Professor Aderonke M. Baiyeroju commenced with the arrival and registration of guests. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and cordiality as dignitaries, colleagues, friends, and family members took their seats.
The event officially began with the rendition of the National Anthem and the University of Ibadan Anthem, followed by the opening prayer led by Reverend Biodun Adesina of the New Covenant Church.
The Master of Ceremonies acknowledged the dignitaries present: the University of Ibadan management team, the College of Medicine management, the University College Hospital team, former Vice Chancellors, past Provosts, past and present Deans, retired professors fondly nicknamed Living Legends, and other distinguished personalities from all walks of life. Professor T. S. Oluleye, the Head of the Ophthalmology Department, in his welcome address, congratulated the celebrant and expressed gratitude to all the guests for attending the ceremony.
Then followed special remarks from Chief Babajide Olatunde-Agbeja, the Special Guest of Honour. He commended the mentors of the celebrant for their influence and support throughout her career. He also praised the University of Ibadan and highlighted previous achievements of the University College Hospital (UCH), including the establishment of an isolation center during the COVID-19 pandemic. He expressed hopes that the renowned medical institution would continue to excel. He acknowledged the celebrant's remarkable career and impact, and wished her a very happy birthday.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor K. O. Adebowale, represented by Professor Peter O. Olapegba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, in his speech acknowledged Professor Baiyeroju’s remarkable academic achievements, astute leadership, and unalloyed dedication and service to the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. He also placed on record her global impact in the field of Ophthalmology. He commended the celebrant for mentoring both upcoming scholars/early career academics and, students. He alluded to the wealth of her research outputs, as attested to by her numerous publications.
He prayed for her to continue to enjoy good health and prosperity even as she bows out of the system.
Felix Ohiwerei OFR e-learning Studio proudly presented an engaging audio-visual citation of the celebrant at the event. Following this impressive display, Professor Dupe Ademola-Popoola took the stage to deliver a captivating guest lecture. She expertly addressed the critical theme “Vision Begins Early: Building Statewide Systems for Paediatric Eye Care”, offering essential insights on early prevention of poor vision in children and underscoring the importance of adopting proactive measures.
Subsequently, goodwill messages were delivered by the Provost of the College of Medicine, the Chief Medical Director (UCH), and the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Science. Each speaker reflected on the celebrant’s immense contributions and commitment to excellence. The celebrant, in her heartfelt response, expressed gratitude to God, her colleagues, and all who had supported her over the years.
The event included a book review by Professor Onakpoya. The book, titled “Sublimely Blessed”, is the celebrant’s captivating autobiography. This remarkable book is structured into five fascinating sections, each revealing the author's extraordinary life journey, a tapestry woven with challenges and triumphs. With vivid storytelling, it paints a powerful picture of resilience and determination, transforming her experiences into an inspirational narrative that resonates deeply with readers from all walks of life. The book was officially launched by some of the distinguished guests, led by the family of the celebrant.
In recognition of her outstanding service, Professor Baiyeroju received accolades and gifts from various groups, including the Student Union, Women in Ophthalmology, NIPOST, ophthalmology nurses, the Department of Ophthalmology, and the UCH Community Eye Unit, among others. Before the program concluded, Dr. Adigun, a consultant and family planning physician, recited a poem titled “To Our Mummy, the Vision Restorer at 70,"in honour of her remarkable contributions to her field.
The chair of the Valedictory Programme Committee, Dr. Mary Ugalahi, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all present.
The programme which was a resounding success was a beautiful celebration of the remarkable legacy of Professor Baiyeroju and her significant contributions to academia and society.
