One of the founding fathers of Veterinary Medicine in the University of Ibadan, nay Nigeria, Professor Oladipo Oduye, turns 83, today, 20th March 2022. Our paths first crossed on 22nd May 1984, as one of his undergraduate students. On that day, he strolled into the class of about 30 students ahead of half of us to give an introductory lecture on General (Clinical) Veterinary Medicine.
I spontaneously admired his appearance: Clean-shaven, handsome looking, with a sparkling white shirt on black trousers, and bow tie to match; his intimidating self-confidence was also admirable.
Apart from being a Veterinary surgeon, Professor Oduye received a professional training in Immunology at the University of Ibadan College of Medicine, under the tutelage of late Professors Edington Osunkoya and Kwaku Adadevoh. He had a successful stint as a lecturer in the Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Ibadan, and later moved to the Department of Veterinary Medicine.
At various times, he served as the Head of his Department, Dean of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Director of Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Member of the University Governing Council and the first Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) of the University.
It is on record that, with his virtue of magnanimity, he contributed to the success of many Faculty members who reached the zenith of their career seamlessly, including Professors Obi, Oladosu, Olufemi, Nottidge, Otesile, Bobade and Adeyefa.
He also significantly influenced the progress of many others in the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and beyond. In other words, his ethos loomed large sufficiently to attract fellowships, goodwill, as well as adversaries! At a time, Oduye was the issue; you were either for him or against him. I am proud to unequivocally assert that I am for him till today! He Chaired the Interview Panel for my appointment as a lecturer on October 4, 1988. The rest is history.
Upon his retirement, Professor Oduye had successful stints at the Ogun State University Teaching Hospital, Sagamu, and later at the University of Ilorin Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Professor Oduye is now fully retired and settles in his hometown, Ilishan Remo. I have visited him a couple of times, and I attended his 80th birthday celebration with Professor Rashid Aderinoye; the occasion witnessed a heavy presence of the UI Muslim Community.
A few years ago, a Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, invited him to the Induction Ceremony of the new graduates. Due to his sterling virtues, he was given an Award. It was a most heroic home-coming.
At 83, Professor Oduye has seen it all. When two of his protégés died recently, he was extremely devastated.
I had to console him.
My teacher, mentor and role model, may God grant you more fruitful years on this side of existence. I am sure God Almighty will bless you with the longevity of life. We shall continue to rejoice with you and your benevolent family, In Sha’Allah.
Happy birthday Sir; long life and sustained prosperity. Igba odun, odun kan. Ire o.
Gani Adeniran
Department of Veterinary Pathology
University of Ibadan
