The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan (UI), Professor Kayode Adebowale, has called on Nigerian leaders to place greater emphasis on building strong institutions, describing it as the bedrock of sustainable national development.
Adebowale made the call at the commissioning of the Sulaiman Botsende Lagundoye Museum and Library at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, where he noted that the strength of a nation lies in enduring systems, not individual achievements.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Peter Olapegba, the Vice-Chancellor said leaders could learn from pioneers whose dedication and selfless service laid foundations that have stood the test of time.
He described the documentation of departmental history, as demonstrated by the newly commissioned museum and library, as a worthy initiative that should be embraced across universities and other institutions.
“This initiative is impressive and should be encouraged. Every department and unit must consciously preserve its history. Institutions cannot make meaningful progress if they lose sight of their past,” he said.
Adebowale added that proper documentation helps present and future generations understand institutional growth, appreciate sacrifices made, and sustain continuity.
He also called for adequate funding to support archival and documentation projects nationwide.
According to him, national development will remain difficult to achieve if leaders continue to focus on individuals rather than building systems that can outlive any single tenure.
Earlier, the Provost of the College of Medicine, UI, Professor Temitayo Ogundiran, described the late Professor Sulaiman B. Lagundoye as a foremost institution-builder whose vision reshaped radiology in Nigeria.
Ogundiran said Lagundoye transformed radiology from a service unit into a full academic discipline, expanding it into a school with influence across Nigeria and West Africa.
He also highlighted his international contributions, including his work with global radiology bodies and academic institutions.
He noted that the museum and library reaffirm the Department of Radiology, UCH Ibadan, as the mother department of radiology in Nigeria and the sub-region, adding that Lagundoye’s legacy shows that institutions are built through discipline, commitment and service.
Also speaking, the Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Professor Ahmed Ahidjo, described the late professor as a dedicated mentor who played a key role in training radiologists across the country.
In her goodwill message, the wife of the late professor, Mrs. Silifat Ladunjoye, described him as a kind and devoted family man, thanking the UCH community for preserving his legacy.
The S.B. Lagundoye Museum and Library is expected to serve as a training hub, research resource and repository of radiology history for future generations.
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