42 YEARS AFTER, UNILORIN MEDICAL GRADUATES, CLASS OF ’84 REUNITE IN LAGOS

By Inemesit Ebu

In a Serene Atmosphere, the UNILORIN College of Health,Class of ’84, re-united in a memorable gathering in Lagos.

In an interview with Journals, Dr. Festus Odunayo Oshoba, a Lagos-based Consultant Ophthalmologist, urged Nigerian youths seeking opportunities abroad to reconsider, describing the “japa” trend as “a slavery mission” away from a nation of abundant resources.

‎‎Dr. Oshoba made these remarks on Friday, July 31st, 2026, at the 42nd reunion of the University of Ilorin Class of 1984 Medical Graduates held in Ikoyi, Lagos.

The event, with the Theme: “The Medical Profession: Lifelong Service through Learning and Giving, 42 Years Stewardship after Graduation,” was a place to relax, share experiences with friends/classmates and re-connect.

Speaking further, Dr Oshoba noted that Nigeria remains “the richest country in the world” if its resources are properly harnessed. He called on citizens to stay and tap into opportunities at home.

He added that the exodus for greener pastures abroad has failed more people than those who appear to have succeeded, noting that the current democratic dispensation offers better opportunities than the so-called “good old days.”

‎”Yes, the cost of living in the ’80s seemed cheaper. In our school days, meals cost 50k and the population was about 60 million. Today it is over 240 million. But the 21st century digital age is better because of globalisation. Today you can communicate across the world in minutes from one spot. In our time, it was letter writing that took days to get to reach the recipient,” he added.

‎ Commenting on the reunion, Dr. Oshoba said the gathering was about giving back to society. The class made a donation to the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH).

‎”The education we received from society and through self-development is worthwhile. It is only natural to give back. We are employers of labour and have trained many people. That is why we are here,” he said.

He highlighted the donation by the Tunji Olowolafe Foundation to LASUTH through the Gbemisola Olowolafe Eye Foundation, aimed at training surgeons and improving eye surgery outcomes.

The keynote address, “The Future of Medical Practice in Nigeria – Random Musings,” was delivered by Dr. Olufemi O. Adelowo, a Professor of Medicine and Consultant Rheumatologist. He examined challenges in the health sector and called for an overhaul of the system, including continuous training of personnel and upgrading of medical facilities to globally acceptable standards.

The four-hour event also featured virtual participation by class members across the country. Participants reminisced on their experiences during and after graduation, and paid tribute to deceased colleagues.

In all, it was a celebration of nostalgia, reunited love and appreciation for life and how far they have come professionally since after their school days as classmates.

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