The Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Professor Darlington Ewaen Obaseki, yesterday delivered the 296th Inaugural Lecture of the University of Benin.
The inaugural lecture, titled: Microscopes, Milestones and Maelstrom: A Pathologist’s Odyssey,’ held at the Akin Deko Auditorium, Ugbowo Campus, UNIBEN. It was a captivating journey through the lens of a seasoned pathologist in the areas of medicine, leadership, and crisis management.
Professor Obaseki commenced his lecture by unraveling the mysteries of the human body and the nuanced language of diseases, inviting the audience to step into the shoes of a pathologist. Contrary to misconceptions, he emphatically declared himself as a “professor of the living,” emphasizing the indispensable role of pathology in contemporary and modern healthcare.
In his enlightening discourse, Professor Obaseki also unraveled the mysteries of the human body and the language of diseases. He further emphasized the pivotal role of pathology in modern healthcare, clarifying that as a pathologist, he sees himself as a professor of the living rather than the dead.
The distinguished professor shared his extensive knowledge, guiding his audience through his remarkable journey in pathology. He highlighted his pioneering role in establishing the minimally invasive technique of fine needle aspiration cytology and discussed his contributions to gastrointestinal pathology practice in Nigeria, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field.
Shifting the focus to leadership, Professor Obaseki shared his experiences in healthcare leadership, illustrating the multifaceted role that extends beyond the microscope. He detailed his orchestration of healthcare teams and adept navigation through complex medical landscapes, ultimately shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
Amidst the challenges of global pandemic, Obaseki found himself in the midst of the maelstrom, demonstrating the resilience of healthcare systems and the unwavering commitment of frontline healthcare workers.
He underscored his crucial role as a pathologist in guiding the nation through those challenging times during the COVID-19 era, which tested the limits and revealed the true meaning of adaptability and innovation in the healthcare sector.
As the lecture approached its conclusion, Professor Obaseki reflected on the path he had traveled, the milestones he had achieved, and the lessons he had learned.
It was a moment to celebrate his unwavering dedication to the pursuit of knowledge and the healing of patients.
‘Microscopes, Milestones, and the Maelstrom: A Pathologist’s Odyssey’ not only deepened the understanding of the audience about the medical world, but also inspired appreciation for the remarkable individuals who made it all possible.
Notable dignitaries, including the executive governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, officials of the Edo State government, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Muhammed, the Provost of the College of Medical Sciences, Professor Wilson Sadoh, the Deans of the School of Medicine – past and present, DA School of Medicine – past and present, former Chief Medical Director of UBTH, Professor Eugene Okpere, Heads of Departments, staff and students of UNIBEN and UBTH, the Obaseki family, and other distinguished guests.
The 296th inaugural lecture of the University of Benin lecture series served as a testament to the significance of Prof Obaseki’s life passion as a pathologist, a job he has done in the last 23 years, his contributions to the medical field, and his influence on the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
