The Alawo of Awoland, Oba Abdulrasaq Taiwo Ajibade Adegboye, has called for stronger collaboration between traditional institutions, universities, public health professionals and government agencies to improve disease prevention and community well-being.
The paramount ruler of Oke-Osun made the call on Monday while delivering his goodwill message at the induction of public health professionals and symposium organised by the Department of Public Health, Redeemer University, Ede, Osun State.
Emphasising the importance of health to sustainable development, the monarch said, “Ìlera l’oro,” a Yoruba expression meaning health is wealth, noting that the well-being of the people is fundamental to development.
He urged public health professionals to uphold integrity, compassion, professional ethics and scientific excellence in the discharge of their duties.
Oba Adegboye, also known as Abioye III, said traditional rulers had important roles to play in community mobilisation, health education, environmental sanitation and immunisation advocacy.
He said, “Traditional institutions have a strategic role to play in community mobilisation, health education, environmental sanitation, immunisation advocacy and the dissemination of reliable health information.”
The monarch called for sustained partnerships between traditional institutions and public health experts to ensure that evidence-based health interventions reached communities effectively.
He also urged the newly inducted professionals to embrace continuous learning, cultural sensitivity, preventive healthcare and interdisciplinary collaboration.
“Public health knowledge must be translated into practical solutions that improve people’s lives,” he said.
The event featured the presentation of recognition awards to deserving members of staff, including the Dean of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Dr D. R. Omotoso, in recognition of their contributions.
The newly inducted public health professionals also received certificates, marking a milestone in their careers.
The Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Shadrach Olufemi Akindele, alongside the faculty dean and the Head of the Department of Public Health, expressed appreciation to the monarch for attending the event and delivering his goodwill message.
The monarch commended the university management, the Department of Public Health and the organisers for promoting academic excellence, professional development and public engagement.
He reaffirmed the commitment of traditional institutions to supporting initiatives that advance public health awareness, disease prevention, environmental sanitation and community development.
Oba Adegboye congratulated the newly inducted professionals and urged all stakeholders to work together towards building a healthier and safer society.