Prof. Oladapo John Obafunwa, the director-general of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), has been conferred with the title of ‘Balogun of Ilara Kingdom’ in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medicine, public health, and research in Nigeria.
The honour, bestowed by the Alara of Ilara, Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Olukayode Ogunsanwo (Telade IV), came during the monarch’s 5th coronation anniversary celebrations in the Epe Division of Lagos state..
Obafunwa, a renowned pathologist and academic leader, has spent decades at the intersection of healthcare and education, shaping medical research in Nigeria and abroad. His career includes serving as provost of the Lagos University College of Medicine, vice-chancellor of Lagos State University, and currently leading NIMR, the country’s foremost public health research institute.
In his citation, the Alara described him as a distinguished son of Ilara whose scholarship and leadership have advanced Nigeria’s medical landscape while bringing pride to his hometown. The chieftaincy title of Balogun, traditionally reserved for warrior-leaders and key aides to the monarch, was presented as a recognition not only of his professional achievements but also of his loyalty and commitment to community development.
Expressing gratitude after his installation, Obafunwa reaffirmed his dedication to the dual callings of science and service. “I appreciate Kabiyesi and I know he is loved by his people. He has been instrumental in supporting our youths through scholarships and empowerment programmes. We will continue to give him our full support in his vision for the development of Ilara community,” he said.
The event drew dignitaries from across Nigeria, including representatives of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos state governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as first class traditional rulers such as the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. Also in attendance were the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup; Dr. Tunji Alausa, minister of Education and Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Lagos deputy governor and several political and community leaders.
For Ilara, the recognition of Obafunwa underscores the kingdom’s tradition of honouring excellence while encouraging its sons and daughters to leverage their professional accomplishments for community progress. Beyond the symbolism of the title, it signals the community’s embrace of knowledge and research as engines of development.
Obafunwa was one of five distinguished indigenes honoured during the anniversary, as the Alara’s reign entered its fifth year marked by efforts to blend cultural heritage with modern aspirations for growth and empowerment.
