Prof. Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo (FAS) Chief Medical Director, Lagos University Teaching Hospital has been nominated as one of the most outstanding CMDs in Nigeria!

My Vision is to Transform LUTH
from Tertiary to Quaternary Hospital" – Prof. Adeyemo

Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), has shared his ambitious vision to transform LUTH from a tertiary to a quaternary health facility. In an exclusive interview, the renowned Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery discusses plans for advanced medical services, a permanent cure for sickle cell anemia, and efforts to curb the brain drain, also known as the "Japa" syndrome.

Background and Career Journey
Prof. Adeyemo detailed his humble beginnings, stating, “I didn’t know what I wanted to be until I got to secondary school." After completing his Dentistry studies at the University of Ibadan, he pursued specialization in Oral and Maxillofacial surgery at LUTH, where he has now spent over 20 years. He has played a pivotal role in transforming the hospital, including launching LUTH’s first International Conference in 2020.

Research, Training, and Innovations
Under Prof. Adeyemo’s leadership, LUTH has made significant strides in research and capacity building. "We bring in researchers and experts from around the world to present on relevant topics,” he explained, highlighting plans to further expand research initiatives beyond resident doctors and consultants.

Nuclear Medicine and Cardiac Care Advancements
Prof. Adeyemo also emphasized LUTH’s state-of-the-art cancer center, which has treated over 11,000 patients since 2019. The government has approved funds for a Nuclear Medicine Center to enhance diagnosis and patient care. Additionally, a cardiac catheterization lab is in the works, with ₦1.5 billion allocated for its establishment.

Plans for Geriatrics and Expanded Facilities
With the growing population of Lagos, Prof. Adeyemo underscored the need for expanded healthcare services. A new 252-room outpatient clinic is being constructed, along with a skywalk connecting it to the main hospital. Plans for geriatric care, including a four-story facility, and a specialized DOTS center for tuberculosis patients are also underway.

Looking Ahead: Quaternary Care and Stem Cell Transplant
As part of his vision, Prof. Adeyemo aims to establish LUTH as a leader in quaternary care. Collaborations with private hospitals, the Sickle Cell Foundation, and international institutions are key components of this strategy. Notably, LUTH is set to perform its first stem cell transplant for sickle cell patients in collaboration with Vanderbilt Medical University and the Lagos State government by the end of September.

In his concluding remarks, Prof. Adeyemo affirmed his commitment to leaving LUTH better than he met it, with a firm focus on quaternary care and cutting-edge medical services.
Excerpts from the Vanguard interview highlighting the CMD's exceptional leadership and dedication to excellence in healthcare delivery.