Okeniyi advocates priority for child heart care at OAU inaugural lecture
The Chief Medical Director of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Professor John Akíntúndé Ọládọ̀tun Òkènìyì, has called for increased investment in child heart care, saying improved healthcare infrastructure and early interventions are critical to reducing childhood illness and deaths in Nigeria.
Professor Okeniyi made the call while delivering the 424th Inaugural Lecture of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, titled “State of the Heart: Echoes from Paediatrics, Pulsations and Purpose,” at Oduduwa Hall on June 30.
The professor of Paediatric Cardiology used the lecture to reflect on his academic and professional journey, highlighting more than two decades of research and contributions to paediatrics, neonatology and paediatric cardiology.
He reviewed findings from his work on childhood poisoning, trauma, parasitic diseases, neonatal tetanus, neonatal sepsis, hypoglycaemia, pneumonia-related hypoxaemia, congenital heart disease, sickle-cell cardiomyopathy and indigenous open-heart surgery.
“If we protect the hearts of our children, we protect the future of our nation,” Okeniyi said as he urged government and stakeholders to prioritise child health.
The OAUTHC chief stressed that simple, evidence-based interventions, combined with strategic investment in advanced paediatric cardiac services, could significantly reduce childhood morbidity and mortality across the country.
He advocated stronger primary healthcare, expanded newborn screening, improved paediatric cardiac infrastructure and sustained capacity building for specialists to improve access to quality care for children with heart conditions.
Professor Okeniyi also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing child health through research, mentoring future healthcare professionals and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system to ensure better outcomes for children.
