The late Emeritus Prof. Akinkugbe was the first Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo City, Ondo State.

Delivering the lecture titled STRENGTHENING THE HEALTH SYSTEM IN NIGERIA THROUGH RESEARCH AND INNOVATION, former Minister of Health and past Vice-Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Prof. Isaac F. Adewole said 'research on health provides direction for appropriate policies and programmes that bring enduring solutions to the country's health needs.

He noted that the habit of importing health intervention without local hard evidence often waste resources and investments.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi described Emeritus professor Akinkugbe’s contributions to tertiary education, healthcare and research as legendary.

"To us in UNIMED, Emeritus Akinkugbe lives on! As an institution committed to excellence in medical education, research and services, Prof Akinkugbe is not a historical note in our developmental trajectory, but a continuous inspiration and evergreen symbol for all we stand for and aspire to be … “Excellence or Nothing”, the VC said.

The Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN represented by the Secretary of the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu appreciated the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Adesegun Fatusi for deeming it fit to celebrate Prof. Akinkugbe.

The former Vice-Chancellor, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, Prof. Friday Okonofua, FAS who was represented by the Barr. Damilola Adejumo on the occasion donated a cheque one million naira to the best student of Internal Medicine in honour of Emeritus Professor Akinkugbe. 

The event was graced by the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, CFR; the former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko, CON; and the wife of the late icon of medicine, Prof. Mrs Folasade Akinkugbe 

Temitope Oluwatayo 

Public Relations Unit,

Corporate Affairs Department,

UNIMED, Ondo.