President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extolled Professor Shaffy Adeniyi Amuwo for his remarkable contributions to public health and the advancement of minority communities, achievements that earned him a commendation on the floor of the United States Congress in 2004 and inspired the establishment of a Minority Scholarship Fund in his honour.
President Tinubu made the remarks on Tuesday in a special tribute marking Professor Amuwo’s 80th birthday, describing him as a scholar, patriot and public intellectual whose life has been defined by service, leadership and commitment to humanity.
The President said Professor Amuwo had contributed immensely to public health education and infrastructure, noting that his insights had enriched policy debates and provided valuable counsel over the years.
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He particularly highlighted Professor Amuwo’s commitment to humanity and minority rights through the establishment of the pioneering “Pipelines/Pathways to Health Professions” programme, which opened opportunities for thousands of minority students to pursue careers and degrees in the health professions.
President Tinubu also acknowledged Professor Amuwo’s numerous medical and humanitarian missions, through which he facilitated more than $50 million worth of medical supplies and eyeglasses to African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana and South Africa.
In Lagos State, the President noted that the octogenarian deployed his wealth of experience towards the development of public health infrastructure while serving on the Governing Board of Lagos State University, LASU.
President Tinubu further recognised Professor Amuwo’s contributions to the Muslim community, saying that as a devout Muslim, he served in several leadership positions within the Nigerian Muslim community in the United States and contributed to the propagation of Islam in Nigeria and beyond.
Reflecting on their personal relationship, the President described Professor Amuwo as a loyal friend and brother whose eight decades have been marked by scholarship, leadership, service, global impact and enduring friendship.
“On this day, therefore, I celebrate a friend, a brother, and a compatriot who continues to serve Nigeria and humanity with intellect and integrity,” President Tinubu said.
The President prayed that Almighty Allah would grant Professor Amuwo many more years in good health, renewed strength and greater joy, while expressing hope that his life would continue to be a blessing to his family, students, professional associates, friends and the nation.
