President Bola Tinubu has named Professor John Oladapo Obafunwa as the new Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR). Professor Obafunwa will take over from Professor Babatunde Salako, whose term ends on July 23, 2024. Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, announced that Obafunwa’s appointment will start on July 24, 2024.
Professor Obafunwa began his medical journey at the University of Lagos, where he graduated in 1980. He then specialized in Anatomic Pathology, the study of disease through the examination of organs and tissues, completing this in May 1987. Furthering his expertise, he specialized in Forensic Pathology in Scotland in 1991 and later earned a law degree in England in 2004. His extensive academic background includes multiple qualifications and memberships in professional organizations across the UK, USA, and Nigeria.
Professor Obafunwa has an international work history, having served in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and the UK. In November 2004, he returned to Nigeria to become a Professor of Forensic Pathology at Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM). He later advanced to the position of Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University.
Ajuri Ngelale stated that President Tinubu is confident in Professor Obafunwa’s vast experience and qualifications. The President expects him to significantly contribute to the NIMR’s mission of leading research on important public health issues in Nigeria. Additionally, he is tasked with developing systems for sharing research findings and fostering an environment conducive to health research and training, in collaboration with federal and state health ministries.
