Prof. Abubakar Umar, President of the Association of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeons of Nigeria (ACTSON), has commended the University of Ilorin for its dedication to medical education, particularly through its Clinical Skills Laboratory.
Prof. Umar made the remarks on February 3, 2026, during a courtesy visit by ACTSON officials to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, ahead of the Association’s 8th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference.
He highlighted the laboratory’s pivotal role in training future doctors, noting that practical skills gained there complement theoretical knowledge and provide learning opportunities that cannot always be achieved with human patients alone.
Prof. Umar also praised the University for being the first in Nigeria to establish a Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Interest Group. He noted that UNILORIN students recently made significant presentations at an international conference in Italy, demonstrating the institution’s commitment to preparing the next generation of surgeons.
The ACTSON President expressed gratitude to the Vice Chancellor for hosting and supporting the conference, describing Ilorin as an ideal location due to its rich heritage in education, research, and development.
He extended condolences to the University over the recent passing of Prof. Badmas Lanre Yusuf, calling him “an important figure and erudite scholar who promoted the development of humanity.”
Prof. Umar also praised UNILORIN’s recent 50th anniversary, highlighting the institution’s global impact through its talented graduates and continued reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading universities.
Responding on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Moji Taibat Bakare-Odunola affirmed the University’s pride in hosting ACTSON and supporting its scientific agenda.
She emphasized the crucial role of cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons in enhancing public health and quality of life, noting that their specialized interventions complement medical treatment and have a lasting societal impact.
The visit underscored the strong collaboration between professional medical bodies and academic institutions in advancing healthcare education and practice in Nigeria.
