LUTH Commissions DOT Centre in Honour of Prof. Christopher Bode, Celebrates His Retirement and Legacy of Service
The Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) on Friday, August 1, 2025, officially commissioned a state-of-the-art Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) Centre, a milestone project in the Hospital’s tuberculosis (TB) control programme.
The event was graced by LUTH Management, staff, and dignitaries from the College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), as well as other key stakeholders in the Nigerian Health sector.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the current CMD of LUTH, Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo (FAS), explained that DOT stands for Directly Observed Therapy, a globally endorsed strategy for the effective treatment of tuberculosis. He noted that under the DOT model, a healthcare worker or trained supervisor directly observes patients as they take each dose of their TB medication—typically daily or several times a week. This supervised approach ensures full adherence to the treatment plan, reducing the risk of drug resistance, incomplete treatment, and the spread of TB infection within the community.
Professor Adeyemo emphasized that the establishment of the new DOT Centre is critical to enhancing the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of TB cases within LUTH and its surrounding population. The facility is equipped with patient-centred spaces, consultation rooms, treatment support infrastructure, and diagnostic services, ensuring that TB care is accessible, private, and efficient.
The commissioning of the Centre by Prof. Christopher Bode himself was a moment of pride for the entire LUTH community. It served not only as a celebration of Prof. Bode’s birthday and retirement but also as a powerful testament to his enduring contribution to national healthcare development. The DOT Centre will stand as a lasting symbol of his dedication to high-impact public health projects.
Following the commissioning, a formal send-off ceremony was held to celebrate the retirement of Professor Christopher Bode, whose tenure as Chief Medical Director was marked by distinguished leadership, institution-building, and a lifelong commitment to medical excellence
The celebration commenced with an opening remark by Professor Adesoji Oludotun Ademuyiwa, Head of Surgery, CMUL. He offered prayers and shared a heartfelt reflection on Prof. Bode’s rich career and invaluable contributions to the Department of Surgery.
Professor Olufemi Fasanmade followed with a brief but touching tribute, recognizing the depth of knowledge, mentorship, and leadership that Prof. Bode brought to medical practice and academia. He wished him continued success and fulfilment in retirement.
Professor Wasiu Lanre Adeyemo (FAS), current CMD of LUTH, highlighted Prof. Bode’s visionary leadership, which saw the execution of several landmark projects including the Olusola Dada Dialysis Centre, expansion of multiple hospital buildings, and the construction of the overhead bridge within the LUTH premises. He expressed profound appreciation on behalf of the Hospital Management, Staff, Students of LUTH.
In his remarks, Professor Ademola Oremosu, Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, commended Prof. Bode’s unwavering discipline, loyalty, and ability to turn institutional challenges into opportunities. He also offered words of prayer and goodwill.
Chairing the event was Professor Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, OON, FAS, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, who acknowledged all dignitaries present and expressed her deep appreciation for Prof. Bode’s lifelong impact—especially in the field of paediatric surgery, where his legacy as a pioneer remains indelible.
The ceremony concluded with warm tributes from colleagues, former students, friends, and administrative leaders. Formal gifts and tokens of appreciation were presented by LUTH Management, CMUL, the Inner Wheel Women Society, and other stakeholder groups in recognition of Prof. Bode’s enduring contributions to health sector development, mentorship, and institution building.
As Prof. Bode transitions into retirement, the LUTH family stands united in gratitude for a legacy defined by excellence, compassion, and leadership.