Amanze Chinonye
The Regent of the International College of Dentists (West African Region), Gbemisola Oke, on Friday hosted a ceremony celebrating four pioneering figures in Nigerian dentistry, described as the “Quadrumvirate of Excellence” for their foundational contributions to the profession in Nigeria.
At the event, former Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede, delivered a keynote address in
honour of Professors Joel Oyekunle Akinosi, Frank Etumiwe Okoisor, Enosakhare Samuel Akpata, and the late Hezekiah Adeyemi Mosadomi, whom he described as architects of modern dentistry in Nigeria.
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Speaking before distinguished fellows of the college, academics, practitioners, and guests, Ogunbodede said the four honourees transformed dentistry in Nigeria during a period when the profession was still developing institutional and academic structures.
He described them as pioneers who combined scholarship, innovation, ethical leadership, and institution-building to shape the future of dental education and practice in the country.
Highlighting the contributions of Joel Oyekunle Akinosi, Ogunbodede noted that the globally recognised “Akinosi technique” for closed-mouth mandibular nerve block remains one of Nigeria’s most significant contributions to clinical dentistry.
He also recalled Akinosi’s role in the establishment of the Nigerian Dental Association and the early leadership of the University of Lagos Dental School.
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On Frank Etumiwe Okoisor, he described him as a pioneering oral medicine specialist whose work helped expand dental education and oral healthcare systems in Nigeria and across Africa. Ogunbodede noted that Okoisor was instrumental in initiatives that led to the establishment of the Intercountry Centre for Oral Health for Africa.
Speaking on Enosakhare Samuel Akpata, the former vice-chancellor praised his contributions to restorative dentistry, research, and scientific publishing, describing him as one of the leading figures who placed Nigerian dental research on the global stage.
The late Hezekiah Adeyemi Mosadomi was remembered as a pioneer in oral pathology and an influential academic administrator whose efforts strengthened dental schools and institutional structures in Nigeria.
Ogunbodede said Mosadomi played a critical role in developing indigenous expertise in oral pathology and reducing dependence on overseas diagnostic support.
According to him, the four distinguished scholars collectively represent the clinical, scientific, and institutional foundations upon which modern Nigerian dentistry was built.
He urged younger dental professionals to emulate the values of discipline, vision, scholarship, and service exemplified by the honourees, stressing that the future of the profession depends on sustaining the standards established by earlier generations.
The event concluded with tributes and a standing ovation for the four celebrated dental icons in recognition of their enduring impact on dental science, education, and professional development in Nigeria.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
