Vice Chancellor (VC), University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Folashade Ogunsola; Provost, College of Medicine, University of Lagos (CMUL), Prof. Ademola Oremosu, and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Osato Giwa-Osagie, were among distinguished personalities who, yesterday, paid tributes to the pioneer clinical and radiation oncologist in West Africa, the late Prof. Kofi Duncan, in Lagos.

The dignitaries, while speaking at the commendation service held in his honour at CMUL, described Duncan as a great Nigerian whose exemplary lifestyle and legacy are worthy of emulation.

Ogunsola, who was represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development Services), Prof. Afolabi Lesi, noted: “He was a pioneer, a trailblazer and an icon. He was one of the pioneers of cancer treatment in Nigeria and West Africa. He was our teacher and a mentor to quite some people. He had a humble spirit and was very accommodating.”

Oremosu said, “Everything in life has a beginning and an end. Duncan trained at Ibadan and was one of the early members of staff at CMUL. He spent 10 years in the College and was among the first to tackle cancer using radiation therapy. He brought in state-of-the-art equipment at the time.

Giwa-Osagie recalled that the late professor was compassionate and lively, noting that they shared similarities, including attending King’s College, Lagos.

One of Duncan’s children, Eyimofe Duncan, described his father as a great man and a pioneer in Nigeria’s academic space, adding that he learned more about his medical career at the event.

His daughter, Erejuwa Gbadebo (née Duncan), said her father encouraged his children to excel and remained a loving father and grandfather.

Meanwhile, speakers and attendees alike recalled Duncan’s pioneering role in radiation oncology, his commitment to mentorship and his lasting influence on generations of medical professionals, noting that his legacy will continue to inspire the academic and medical community.