Dr Toyin Salawu, a respected public health physician and dedicated civil servant, has died after years of health challenges.

Her death has left family, friends, colleagues and former associates mourning a woman remembered for her quiet strength, integrity and commitment to improving the health of Nigerians.

In his tribute, Dr Ayotunde Adegboyega, a former assistant and friend, recalled Salawu’s life of service, integrity and mentorship.

For Adegboyega, her passing was particularly painful. Salawu was his boss for eight of his 11 years at the Federal Ministry of Health in Lagos, from 1992 to 2000.

He described her as an intelligent, disciplined and principled professional who demanded accountability and never compromised public trust.

As head of the National Control of Diarrhoeal Diseases Programme and later during the implementation of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness strategy, Salawu played an important role in strengthening child-survival programmes through policy development, training and programme support.

Beyond her professional achievements, Adegboyega remembered her as a committed mentor who encouraged colleagues and subordinates to develop their potential.

He credited her counsel with inspiring him to pursue a master’s degree in public health, a decision that helped shape his subsequent 22-year career with the World Health Organisation.

He also recalled her insistence that every unspent government fund be returned to the ministry, saying she regarded public service as a sacred trust.

Although she began as his supervisor, their relationship grew into one of friendship and sisterhood. Even after Adegboyega left Nigeria for international service, they remained in close contact, with him and his wife visiting Salawu whenever they returned home.

Dr Salawu is survived by her family and loved ones. Her burial arrangements will be announced by the family.

Adegboyega described her legacy as one of “character, service and the lives we touch,” adding, “I will always thank God that our paths crossed.”