Prof. Mayowa Ojo Owolabi MBBS, MSc, DrM, MD, DSc, FMCP, FWACP, FRCP, FANA, FAHA, FAAN, FAAS, FAS, FAMedS

Professor Mayowa Ojo Owolabi, MBBS, MSc, DrM, MD, DSc, FMCP, FWACP, FRCP, FANA, FAHA, FAAN, FAAS, FAS, FAMedS, stands as a luminary in the field of neurology and precision medicine, adorned with an extensive array of academic accolades and leadership roles. Currently serving as a Professor of Neurology and the Director of the Center for Genomic and Precision Medicine at the University of Ibadan, he brings his expertise to diverse areas including implementation science, translational genomic epidemiology, and the study of hypertension, stroke, and cardiovascular diseases.

During his impactful tenure as the Dean of the Faculty of Clinical Sciences from 2018 to 2022, Professor Owolabi left an indelible mark. His current role as Principal Investigator in numerous multimillion-dollar internationally funded research projects showcases his unwavering dedication. Among these groundbreaking initiatives are the African Rigorous Innovative Stroke Epidemiological Surveillance (ARISES), Stroke Investigative Research and Educational Network (SIREN), and the Systemic Investigation of Blacks with Stroke using genomics (SIBS-Genomics). These projects focus on stroke epidemiology and genetics, involving a consortium covering over 12 African countries and more than 55,000 subjects.

Renowned for his innovative contributions, Professor Owolabi introduced conceptual models like the 'Seed of Life Model' and tools such as the HRQOLISP, a globally accepted quality of life measure for stroke survivors. His research breakthroughs include identifying both genetic and non-genetic risk factors for stroke in Africa, exploring the protective effects of green leafy vegetables against stroke and hypertension, and pioneering the discoveries of the association between APOL1, microRNA, and stroke in Africans.

His global recognition is evidenced by being among the top 2% scientists globally in 2023. Professor Owolabi received the 2021 World Stroke Organization Global Award for Outstanding Contributions to Clinical Stroke Research. Actively leading actions against hypertension in Africa in collaboration with esteemed organizations like the World Hypertension League and the World Health Organization, he solidifies his role as a leader in the fight against stroke, hypertension, and non-communicable diseases.

In academia, Professor Owolabi's impact is reflected in over 400 publications in peer-reviewed journals, with an h-index of 84 and over 122,000 citations. Serving as an associate editor of the Stroke journal and several other top journals in neurology, he continues to contribute significantly to the academic landscape. His fellowship status in esteemed institutions such as the American Academy of Neurology, American Heart Association, Royal College of Physicians, Academy of Medical Specialties, and the Nigerian Academy of Science, African Academy of Science, and Atria Academy of Science and Medicine attests to his contributions receiving widespread acclaim.

Notably, Professor Owolabi holds the honor of being the fifth individual to receive the Doctor of Science degree from the University of Ibadan, a distinction bestowed during the university's 75th anniversary and his 50th birthday, marking a pivotal moment in his distinguished career.

Beyond his academic and research endeavors, Professor Owolabi actively engages in teaching, mentoring, and collaborative research. His leadership roles in national and international organizations underscore his commitment to advancing medical knowledge and improving health outcomes, particularly in the African context.

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