Prof Bayo Fajemisin: Tribute toNigeria’s First ENT Surgeon.
By Abraham A. Ariyo, M.D.
Professor Adebayo Aderinre Fajemisin, distinguished pioneer and Nigeria’s first Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Surgeon, passed away on August 21, 2025, in London, England, at the age of 85. Born on October 21, 1939, he was the grandson of Pa Fariogun Fajemisin of the Liyinta Adejuyigbe branch of the Bilaro-Oluodo Ruling House of the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.
Professor Fajemisin’s early education began at Christ School, Ado-Ekiti, in 1950, followed by higher studies at Ibadan Grammar School. In 1960, he entered the University of Liverpool to study Medicine, graduating in 1965. He pursued surgical training across Northern England and Scotland, ultimately earning a fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. During this period, he also served honorably as a Major in both the British and Nigerian Armies.
In 1966, he married his beloved wife, Zena Winifred Fajemisin, with whom he shared a devoted family life. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and daughters-in-law.
In 1972, Professor Fajemisin returned to Nigeria, making history as the country’s first ENT Surgeon at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. His commitment to academic Medicine was evident, as he served as Consultant Surgeon at UCH and Senior Lecturer at the University of Ibadan from 1978 to 1983. Between 1976 and 1978, he further advanced his expertise with a fellowship at Sunnybrook Medical Centre in Toronto, Canada, where he specialized in maxillofacial tumor surgery.
In 1984, his career expanded internationally when he became Chief Consultant at Riyadh Central Hospital in Saudi Arabia and concurrently served as Associate Professor at King Abdulaziz University. He served there with distinction for 13 years. So beloved was he among his peers, for his warmth, generosity, and support of younger colleagues, that they fondly nicknamed him “the Mayor of Riyadh.” His reputation for excellence and integrity also endeared him to members of the Saudi royal family.
Upon retiring from his medical career in 1996, Professor Fajemisin returned to Nigeria. He was appointed the first Federal Commissioner for Osun State, serving in this role until 2000. Thereafter, in 2003, he channeled his vision into hospitality and community development, establishing the Zenababs Halfmoon Resort in Ilesha—named after his wife, Zena, and son, Babatunde. He also played a foundational role in the Ilesha Restoration Group and remained an active member of the Iloro Young Men’s Society at the Cathedral of St. John’s.
Beloved by his students at UCH, respected by colleagues worldwide, and cherished by his family, Professor Fajemisin was a man of compassion, intellect, and vision. Beyond Medicine, he delighted in travel, particularly sea cruises and world tours, where he embraced diverse cultures and friendships.
Professor Fajemisin’s legacy is one of pioneering achievement, dedicated service, and abiding humanity. His gentle smile, generosity of spirit, and unwavering devotion to uplifting others will be remembered with gratitude and deep affection.
May his gentle soul rest in everlasting peace.
Abraham A. Ariyo, MD, MPH, FACC.
Author, The Heart Chronicles.
