Remembering The Remarkable Life Of Dr. Olufunmilayo Alakija
DR. Olufunmilayo Augusta Alakija, fondly known as "Mama A" within the Q- Life Family Clinic, remains an enduring presence in our hearts and minds, even on the sixth anniversary of her passing.
Today, as we reflect on her remarkable life, the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of Q- Life Family Clinic pay tribute to a visionary leader, an exceptional medical practitioner, and a beloved member of our community. Born on August 3, 1959, into the family of the late Senator Augustine Olabiyi Durojaiye of Ijebu- Igbo, Ogun State, Alakija's journey was one of purpose and service. Her father's appreciation of her intelligence and compassionate nature helped to nurture her path towards medicine from an early age.
Alakija's educational path laid the foundation for her illustrious career. She received her primary education at Christ Church Cathedral School, Broad Street, Lagos, before continuing her academic journey at the Federal Government College, Odogbolu, Ogun State. In 1983, she proudly graduated from the University of Lagos, earning her medical degree, and embarking on a lifelong mission to heal and uplift her community.
Her professional journey was marked by a series of significant roles, each contributing to her expertise and shaping her approach to healthcare. From her tenure as a House Officer at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital to her role as a Senior Medical Officer at the staff clinic of the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company ( NSPMC), Alakija's commitment to excellence never wavered.
In 1998, fuelled by a desire to elevate medical care to international standards, Alakija took a bold step forward, founding a medical practice in Lagos. Despite initial challenges, her determination and resilience shone through. In 2000, Q- Life Family Clinic emerged on Bishop Aboyade Cole
Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, marking the beginning of a transformative journey in healthcare provision.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, Alakija pursued specialist training in Travel Medicine from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, alongside the Advanced Management Programme at the Lagos Business School. Her tireless efforts to expand her expertise underscored her commitment to delivering holistic, world- class healthcare services to her patients.
Alakija's exemplary dedication to healthcare extended beyond the confines of family health and occupational health. Her reputation as a trusted healthcare professional and her dedication to excellence earned her the respect and admiration of immigration authorities, as she served as a Panel Physician for the United States and Canadian governments. In this crucial role, her clinic played a pivotal part as a panel site in ensuring the health and safety of immigration applicants, contributing significantly to the immigration process of both nations.
Beyond her professional achievements, Alakija was a pillar of her community, actively involved in numerous professional associations and social clubs. Her memberships in esteemed organisations such as the Nigerian Medical Association ( NMA), Association of General Practitioners of Nigeria ( AGPN), International Society of Travel Medicine ( ISTM), the Medical Women's Association of Nigeria ( MWAN), the Campbell Street Clinical Group, a group of doctors from various specialties who believed in continuous education and the updating of medical knowledge long before it became law; the Lagos Business School Alumni Association ( LBSAA), Women in Management and Business ( Winbiz) and the International Panel Physician Association ( IPPA) reflected her dedication to advancing medical knowledge and standards.
She was also a member of the Ikoyi Club 1938, the Lagos Motorboat Club, Ikoyi ( LMBC), the Lagos Polo Club ( LPC), and, by association, the Metropolitan Club Victoria Island, the Victoria Fellowship Church, Lekki ( where she received spiritual inspiration and hosted the Ikoyi group's Thursday house fellowship) and Our Saviour's Church, TBS.
Yet, amidst her many accomplishments, she remained grounded in her values and passions. Whether she was engaging in aerobic dancing, exploring new destinations or sharing her culinary talents, she approached life with boundless energy and enthusiasm.
The legacy of Alakija lives on through the enduring impact of QLife Family Clinic. The clinic's unwavering dedication to providing high- quality medical services has not only sustained its relationship with the United States and Canadian governments but has also led to its listing as a Panel Site for the British and South Korean governments. This recognition underscores the clinic's reputation for excellence on an international scale. Moreover, the clinic's remarkable growth is evident in its expanded staff strength, which has more than doubled, and its ongoing physical structural expansion, reflecting its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its patients and community.
In a fitting tribute to the legacy of Alakija, the Dr. Funmi Alakija Foundation ( DFAF) was founded in 2018 to further her vision for improved primary healthcare services in Nigeria. Since its inception, the foundation has conducted medical outreaches in impoverished areas and donated medical equipment and supplies to public primary healthcare facilities in Lagos State.
Today, as we remember Dr. Olufunmilayo Augusta Alakija, we are reminded of her indomitable spirit, her unwavering dedication, and her profound impact on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Though she no longer walks among us, her legacy continues to inspire and guide us in our pursuit of excellence.
Rest in peace, Dr. Olufumilayo Augusta Alakija.