Nigerian Medical Scholar Named President-Elect of Global Education Body

A leading Nigerian academic, Emiola Oluwabunmi Olapade‑Olaopa, has been elected President-Elect of the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME), marking a significant milestone for Africa’s representation in global medical education leadership.

Olapade-Olaopa, who represents the Association of Medical Schools in Africa (AMSA), was confirmed for the role during the organisation’s annual in-person Executive Council meeting held in Lagos.

He is scheduled to assume office as President on January 1, 2027, succeeding Ricardo León Bórquez at the end of his four-year tenure.

A professor of Surgery at the University of Ibadan and Honorary Consultant Urologist at the University College Hospital, Olapade-Olaopa is widely recognised for his contributions to medical education and policy. He previously served as Provost of the College of Medicine at the University of Ibadan and has been an active member of WFME’s Executive Council.

His emergence underscores growing confidence in African leadership within global academic institutions, particularly in advancing standards and innovation in medical training.

Welcoming the development, Bórquez expressed optimism about the incoming leadership, noting that Olapade-Olaopa would bring valuable insight, energy, and direction to the organisation.

In his remarks, Olapade-Olaopa described the appointment as an honour and pledged to work collaboratively with stakeholders across regions to strengthen medical education systems, promote innovation, and ensure that future healthcare professionals are equipped to meet evolving global health demands.

WFME also acknowledged the contributions of Bórquez, commending his leadership and expressing confidence in a smooth transition as the organisation continues its mandate to advance high-quality medical education worldwide.