- Safiu Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has hailed former member of the Lagos State University’s Governing Council, Prof. Shaffy Amuwo, over his 80th birthday.
Tinubu, in a personal statement issued on Tuesday, described Prof. Amuwo as a scholar, patriot, and a man of deep convictions.
He recalled his active years in service which was marked with his contributions to public health education and infrastructure.
‘Over the years, I have come to value his wisdom, his commitment to public service and democracy, and his unwavering love for Lagos and Nigeria.
‘As an academic and public intellectual, Prof. Amuwo has contributed immensely to public health education and infrastructure.
‘His insights have enriched policy debates on public health, and his counsel has been a source of strength to many, including me.
‘His love for humanity and minority rights led him to launch a pioneering programme called “Pipelines/Pathways to Health Professions,” which opened doors for thousands of minority students to become health professionals with various degrees.’ The President write,
Tinubu further recalled that Prof. Amuwo’s outstanding contribution to public health and minority advancement earned him a commendation on the floor of the United States Congress in 2004 and later the establishment of a Minority Scholarship Fund in his name by the US Congress.
He also mentioned his humanitarian missions and interventions during his time as a member of LASU Governing bOARD.
‘Prof. Amuwo is also known for his many medical and humanitarian missions that helped facilitate over $50 million worth of medical supplies and eyeglasses to African countries, including Nigeria, Ghana, and South Africa.
‘In Lagos, his home state, he gave from his wealth of experience, contributing to the development of public health infrastructure while serving on the Governing Board of Lagos State University (LASU).
‘As a devout Muslim, Prof. Amuwo served in several leadership positions within the Nigerian Muslim community in the US and helped propagate Islam in Nigeria and beyond.’ He said.
Tinubu maintained that most of Prof. Amuwo’s 80 years are hallmarked by scholarship, leadership, service, global impact, and commitment to friendship as he celebrated and prayed for him.
‘On this day, therefore, I celebrate a friend, a brother, and a compatriot who continues to serve Nigeria and humanity with intellect and integrity.
‘I pray that Almighty Allah will grant him more years in good health, renewed strength, and greater joy. May his life continue to be a blessing to his family, students, professional associates, friends, and our nation.
‘Happy Birthday, Prof. Shaffy Amuwo. Happy birthday, my friend and brother.’ He added.
Paternally, Amuwo is a direct descendant of Royal Family of the Eletu Iwashe of Lagos.
Maternally, he is a grandson of Chief Sadiku Sarumi, the Ashoju Oba of Lagos, during the reign of Oba Adele.
He had his earliest education at Zumratul Islamiyyah Elementary School & Methodist Boys’ High School, Lagos, and attended several evening schools while working for the United Bank for Africa before proceeding to the USA.
He has been married for more than four decades to Linda Marie Amuwo with whom he is blessed with Shakirudeen A. Amuwo, Ph.D., MPH; Quamdeen A Amuwo, BS; Safiat Alice-Ajike Amuwo, MD, MA, MPH; and Shehu Adeniyi Amuwo.