President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a Nigerian-born Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, on his election as President-Elect of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA).
In a press release dated December 8, 2024, and issued on Monday, Tinubu described Dr. Ogunyemi’s achievement as a reflection of visionary leadership and a dedication to excellence. The statement, signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, praised Ogunyemi’s contributions to medicine and his commitment to enhancing the welfare of others.
Ogunyemi’s Accomplishments Highlighted
President Tinubu commended Ogunyemi’s distinguished career, emphasizing his expertise as a dermatologist based in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and his work as a visiting specialist in Labrador City since 2018. Highlighting Ogunyemi’s extensive leadership experience spanning 15 years, Tinubu expressed confidence in his ability to steer the CMA to greater heights when his election is formally confirmed at the CMA Annual General Meeting in May 2025.
Tinubu urged Ogunyemi to prioritize inclusivity and collaboration, calling on him to work with others who contested the position as “partners in progress” for a unifying leadership mandate.
“The prayers and unwavering support of the Nigerian government and its people accompany Dr. Ogunyemi as he takes on the mantle of leadership,” Tinubu added.
About Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi
Dr. Ogunyemi is a respected physician, educator, and leader with expertise in areas such as health policy, diversity, equity, clinical dermatology, and medical humanities.
His academic credentials include:
- A Fellowship in Health Sciences Improvement from the University of Alberta (2024)
- A Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University (2020)
- A Graduate Certificate in Medical Teaching (2019) and a Doctor of Medicine (2013) from Memorial University of Newfoundland
Ogunyemi’s accolades include the 2023 Faculty of Science Alumni Award from Western University, the 2022 Canadian Medical Association Award for Young Leaders, and the Harry Jerome Award for Excellence in Health Sciences (2017).
He has held significant leadership roles, including positions on the Governance Committee of the CMA, the Anti-Black Racism Accreditation Working Group of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, and the Board of Directors for the Skin Research Group of Canada.
Global Recognition
Dr. Ogunyemi’s contributions to medicine, governance, and social accountability have earned him recognition on national and international platforms, reinforcing his reputation as a trailblazer in health sciences and leadership.
Tinubu’s commendation reflects Nigeria’s pride in Ogunyemi’s accomplishments, emphasizing the country’s continued support for its citizens making significant impacts globally.
