It was four unforgettable days of friendship, nostalgia, philanthropy, laughter and celebration as members of the University of Ibadan Medical & Dental School Class of 1991 reunited in Ibadan to mark 35 years since graduation.
Held from Thursday, August 13 to Sunday, August 16, 2026, and themed “Emerald Anniversary,” the reunion brought together doctors and dentists of the prestigious class from different parts of the world for a colourful celebration of three and a half decades of professional achievement, enduring friendship and giving back to society.
IITA, Ibadan, provided the picturesque setting for most of the activities, while the University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, where the class members began their medical journey, provided the nostalgic backdrop for a remarkable homecoming.
From the opening welcome reception to the grand finale, every moment was carefully packaged to celebrate not just 35 years of graduation, but the people, memories and values that have kept the class together.
For the Class, the 35-year reunion was more than an event—it was a celebration of legacy, friendship and shared excellence.
Behind the beautifully coordinated and memorable 35th Reunion was the professional touch of Medic Tours Limited, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Jumoke Sonuga. Known for creating bespoke experiences that blend impeccable organisation, elegance and attention to detail, Sonuga brought her expertise to bear on the landmark reunion.
City People’s Dare Adeniran (08057639079) was at the iconic reunion and brings you all the interesting gists. Enjoy!
DAY ONE: A GRAND WELCOME
Thursday marked the official arrival of members for the much-anticipated reunion. Members were warmly received at the I House Terrace of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), where registration and personalised check-in set the tone for the four-day celebration.
Later in the evening, the reunion officially came alive with a colourful welcome reception.
A traditional heritage welcome by the Olaijo Arts World cultural troupe added a rich Nigerian flavour to the evening, with an electrifying performance that immediately got guests in the mood for celebration.
An icebreaker session followed, providing an opportunity for old classmates to reconnect, exchange pleasantries and rekindle friendships that had survived three and a half decades.
Another attraction was the Memory Wall photo installation, which offered members an opportunity to capture fresh memories while reminiscing about their university days.
Cocktails, a sumptuous buffet dinner, music and dancing rounded off the opening night in grand style. Ibadan-based seasoned broadcaster Emperor Imoyosola Adetoro anchored the Day One programme.
DAY TWO: REUNION, REFLECTION AND GIVING BACK
Friday began on an energetic note with a morning aerobics and gym session, followed by breakfast.
Members later proceeded to the IITA Conference Centre for an extensive opening plenary session where they reviewed the class’s activities, achievements, projects and future agenda.
One of the major issues discussed was the proposed adoption of a Primary Health Care (PHC) initiative as the Class Project, with a proposal to upgrade the ALGON Ibadan Airport Community Primary Health Centre in Alakia into a training site.
The proposal received strong support from a majority of members, reflecting the class’s growing determination to channel its collective expertise and resources towards meaningful community impact.
For the Class of ’91, it is no longer enough to celebrate professional success.
There is also a strong desire to give something back to the community that nurtured them, while supporting the University of Ibadan, its College of Medicine and Dentistry, UCH and society at large.
That commitment was demonstrated even before the reunion itself.
500+ BENEFIT FROM MEDICAL OUTREACH
In the days leading to the reunion, members of the class organised a two-day free medical outreach at the ALGON Ibadan Airport Community Primary Health Centre in Alakia.
More than 500 residents from Alakia and neighbouring communities benefited from the exercise.
Services provided included blood pressure checks, diabetes and other screening tests, malaria checks, dental care and the distribution of free medications.
Members who participated in the outreach shared moving experiences from the field, noting that the healthcare needs of many communities remain enormous.
Their reflections extended beyond medicine and dentistry to include the need for improved surgical services, education, healthcare facilities and other areas where professionals can make a difference.
The proposed PHC project is therefore expected to provide a structured platform for the Class of 1991 to sustain its intervention and deepen its contribution to society.
ASO-OKE MOMENT AT IITA
Following the plenary, members changed into their signature reunion attire — stylish Aso-Oke trousers paired with white tops featuring Aso-Oke patches at the front.
The colourful ensemble, created by another of Sonuga’s companies, the luxury fashion brand Adriel Lux Design Limited, provided another opportunity for striking group photographs and memorable moments
With cameras flashing and classmates posing together, the atmosphere was one of pure nostalgia and camaraderie.
A WALK THROUGH UI BOTANICAL GARDENS
From IITA, the reunion train moved to the Botanical Gardens of the University of Ibadan. Members were taken on an interesting tour led by Dr. Thomas Chiaka Emmanuelle, who introduced them to different species of trees, their names and origins. It was a refreshing excursion that combined knowledge, nature and nostalgia.
Members also took time to enjoy the serene ambience of the garden before converging for a special lunch.
BACK TO THE SOURCE: CLASS OF ’91 VISITS UCH
One of the most emotional moments of the reunion came with the Class’s courtesy visit to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.
For many of the doctors and dentists, UCH was more than just a hospital. It was where their professional journeys began.
The Class received a special welcome from Prof. Olubukola Adeponle Adesina, Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), and Director of Clinical Services, Research and Training, UCH — herself a member of the 1991 Class of the University of Ibadan College of Medicine.
Also present were Mrs. Oluseyi Rebecca Eze, Director of Administration and Secretary to the UCH Board of Management; Mr. Iyiola Benjamin Ajibade (FCA), Director and Head of Finance and Accounts; and Dr. Sesan Oluwasola, Deputy Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee on Research and Ethics.
Speaking on behalf of the Class, its team leader, Dr. Adenrele Adedeji Olajide, described the visit as a homecoming.
“It is a great pleasure for us to be here. It is great to be home,” he said, noting that some members of the class were actually born at UCH. Thirty-five years after graduation, Olajide said the return to Ibadan offered a special opportunity to reconnect with the institution and city that played major roles in their lives.
“35 YEARS IS A LONG TIME” — PROF. ADESINA
Receiving the Class on behalf of the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, and UCH management, Prof. Adesina described the homecoming as an emotional moment.
“Thirty-five years is a long time,” she remarked, expressing delight at seeing many familiar faces back at the hospital.
She commended the Class for its community intervention, particularly the medical outreach, noting that such initiatives were consistent with the fundamental mandate of UCH — training, clinical services and research.
According to her, the Class had taken its contribution a step further by supporting the community and helping to advance the reason the hospital was established.
Her message was simple but powerful: after years of professional accomplishments, impact on the community becomes the real measure of success.
NOSTALGIC TOUR OF UCH
After the meeting, Dr. Chiaka led members on a tour of some of the hospital’s new, upgraded and existing facilities.
The visit quickly turned nostalgic as several members recognised hostel blocks and room floors where they had spent memorable years as students. For some, it was an emotional walk down memory lane.
The UCH visit ended with a tour of the iconic Alex Sandal Hall, further deepening the feeling of returning to the source.
CAPPA BAR TURNS INTO CLASS REUNION HOTSPOT
Friday night ended at CAPPA Bar Lounge, where members enjoyed a relaxed social evening filled with food, drinks, music and plenty of laughter.
Barbecue, suya, pepper soup and dinner were served as old-school music took members back to their youthful days.
One of the evening’s delightful surprises was the birthday celebration for Dr Toyin, which had taken place two days earlier.
Rather than celebrate alone, she chose to mark the special occasion with her classmates, adding another layer of warmth to the reunion.
DAY THREE: THE GRAND FINALE
Saturday morning continued with aerobics, gym sessions, breakfast and a combination of indoor and outdoor games. But everyone knew the biggest spectacle was still ahead. By evening, the IITA Conference Centre had been transformed into a glamorous emerald-themed celebration venue.
A red carpet, emerald spotlight interviews and group photo sessions created a celebrity-style arrival experience as members stepped out in their finest outfits. Cameras clicked continuously as classmates posed individually and in groups.
A NIGHT OF MEMORIES, TRIBUTES AND CELEBRATION
Inside the hall, the grand finale officially commenced with an opening prayer by Dr. Zainab Bello.
Dr. Femi Adebajo delivered the opening remarks, reflecting on 35 years of friendship and describing the class as one family of brothers and sisters.
He thanked God for the safe journeys and successes recorded by members over the years, expressing optimism that the best was still ahead.
Adebajo ended on a humorous note, quoting Winston Churchill’s famous line about a good speech being long enough to cover the subject and short enough to create interest.
The remark drew laughter and set the tone for a relaxed evening.
THEN & NOW: 35 YEARS IN ONE FRAME
One of the most captivating segments of the night was the “Then & Now” photo tribute. Old photographs of members as young medical students were projected alongside their recent images.
Favourite quotes, youthful ambitions, areas of medical interest and what members hoped to become were also revisited.
Coordinated by Dr. Chiaka, the presentation generated laughter, surprise and emotional reactions as members saw just how dramatically — and in some cases, remarkably little — they had changed.
It was one of those moments that perfectly captured the essence of the reunion: 35 years had passed, but the bond remained.
SANGO AND OYA TAKE CENTRE STAGE
Culture also took centre stage as the Olaijo Arts World presented a drama depicting the story of Sango and Oya.
The performance explored the timeless theme of power without wisdom, adding a strong Yoruba cultural dimension to the evening. It was both entertaining and thought-provoking.
11 CLASSMATES REMEMBERED
Amid the merriment came one of the most solemn moments of the night. Eleven members of the Class who had passed away were remembered through a special tribute session.
Their photographs and brief profiles were displayed as classmates observed a minute’s silence in their honour. Dr. Foluke Otitoju guided members through the process of compiling the list of departed classmates and paid tribute to their memories. For a class that had travelled together for 35 years, their absence was deeply felt.
HONOURS FOR CLASS SERVICE
The reunion also provided an opportunity to celebrate members who had distinguished themselves through service, commitment to class projects and contributions to society.
Among those specially recognised were Dr. Thomas Chiaka Emmanuelle and Dr. Adenrele Adedeji Olajide, President of the Class. Both received standing ovations for their sacrifices, dedication and contributions towards the success of the class’s activities and projects.
MEDIC TOURS GETS A STAND
Special recognition also went to Mrs. Jumoke Sonuga, CEO of Medic Tours Ltd and Adriel Lux Design Limited, the brilliant event planner behind the reunion.
Her efforts in putting together the elaborate four-day programme earned her a standing ovation from the Class. In her response, Sonuga expressed appreciation to members of the Class for trusting her with such an important assignment.
Judging by the seamless flow of activities, attention to detail and overall ambience, that confidence was certainly well placed.
For Sonuga, the accolades were well deserved. Through Medic Tours, she has built a reputation for carefully packaged travel, medical tourism, leisure and special events. Her experience in organising high-profile gatherings and creating memorable experiences was evident in the seamless execution of the reunion programme. From planning and hospitality to ambience and overall coordination, every detail reflected thoughtful preparation.
A FEAST FIT FOR AN EMERALD ANNIVERSARY
Dinner time brought another burst of excitement. Guests were treated to an impressive buffet featuring a mix of local and continental dishes, desserts, cocktails, finger foods and choice drinks. There was something for every palate. But it was the opening of the dance floor that truly changed the tempo of the evening.
DJ BOYO TAKES OVER THE DANCE FLOOR
Once DJ Boyo began dishing out classic old-school tunes, the hall erupted. Members who had spent the earlier part of the evening seated and reminiscing suddenly found their way to the dance floor. The years disappeared.
Doctors and dentists transformed into enthusiastic dancers as they sang along to familiar hits and displayed impressive dance moves. A dance competition and other side attractions added more fun to an already electric evening.
Keeping the celebration lively throughout was the master of ceremonies, Oluwasegun Adebayo, popularly known as No. 1 Celebrity MC, whose energetic delivery and comic timing kept the guests engaged.
EMERALD DECOR TAKES CENTRE STAGE
The venue itself was a major attraction. Green and white dominated the décor, perfectly reflecting the Emerald Anniversary theme.
A spectacular 35-shaped reunion cake complemented the setting. The décor and cake were handled by Mrs. Tolulope Ilori of TeetosCakes and Events, whose work added an elegant finishing touch to the celebration.
Beautiful ushers also complemented the emerald theme in green and ash Aso-Oke short wrappers, ash tops and matching gele.
ADIRE SOUVENIRS ADD A CULTURAL TOUCH
Another thoughtful detail was the reunion souvenir. Guests received beautifully crafted bags made from different Adire designs, incorporating touches of green and black.
The choice of Adire gave the souvenirs a distinctly Nigerian identity while providing guests with a stylish keepsake from the memorable celebration. Kudos to Mrs. Jumoke Sonuga’s Adriel Lux Design for the creativity and craftsmanship.
CAKE CUTTING AND MORE PHOTOGRAPHS
The cutting of the reunion cake became another major photo moment. Members gathered around the giant 35-shaped cake, laughing, posing and celebrating the journey that had brought them to the Emerald Anniversary.
Group photographs followed, ensuring that the faces, friendships and memories of the milestone reunion were preserved for years to come.
A CLASS THAT HAS COME OF AGE
For the Class of 1991, the Emerald Reunion was much more than a social gathering. It was a celebration of survival, friendship, professional excellence, service and legacy.
Thirty-five years after leaving medical school, members returned not merely to reminisce about the past, but to discuss how they could make a greater impact on the future.
From the proposed PHC project to the medical outreach, the UCH homecoming and the tributes to departed classmates, the reunion successfully blended purpose with pleasure.
It was nostalgia without being stuck in the past. It was celebration with a sense of responsibility.
Above all, it was a powerful reminder that some friendships, forged in the classrooms, wards and hostels of the College of Medicine of the University of Ibadan 35 years ago, can withstand the passage of time.
DAY FOUR: FAREWELL, BUT NOT GOODBYE
Sunday, August 16, brought the four-day celebration to a close. Members exchanged farewell greetings, hugs and final photographs before departing Ibadan for different destinations.
But judging by the warmth, laughter and renewed bonds forged during the Emerald Anniversary, the Class of 1991 left with one certainty: 35 years may have passed, but the journey continues.
MEMBERS OF THE UI MEDICAL & DENTAL SCHOOL CLASS OF 1991
Members of the Class include Dr. Abioye Oluwatoyin, Dr. Adebayo Adekola, Dr. Ekeh Akpofure Peter, Dr. Fatukasi Oluwagbenga David, Dr. Adenrele Adedeji Olajide, Dr. Olarinde Olawale, Dr. Fawehinmi Folarinde Oladeji, Dr. Ashaye Rotimi, Dr. Adebola Philip, Dr. Adeleye Adeola Olubukola A., Dr. Nkem Ginikemwa, Dr. Adekunle Isiaka Ayofe Olujobi, Dr. Babafemi Taiwo, Dr. Gbadebo Olufowobi Sunday, Dr. Oligbo Peter C., Dr. Olufemi Abimbola Adekunle, Dr. Ike Anselem Uchenna, Dr. Balogun Rasheed Abiodun, Dr. Adeshina Olubunola A., Dr. Obigbesan Oludayo, Dr. Oguike Uche Hilderbrand, Dr. Ajala Ayodeji Francisca, Dr. Bello Zainab Kikelomo, Dr. Junaid Funsho I., Dr. Otitoju Foluke Abiodun, Dr. Saidu Suleman Ahmed, Dr. Mustapha Adebola Quadri, Dr. Coker Marcellina Efupelumi, Dr. Akande Bolarinwa Olutoyin, Dr. Abioye T.A., Dr. Abia Ebi, Dr. Akintobi Adedayo Akindele, Dr. Eko Patience, Dr. Oduntan Oluwole Oladapo, Dr. Thomas Chiaka Emmanuelle, Dr. Ugbon John Louis, Dr. Ogunbowale Titi, Dr. Fabunmi Lawal, Dr. Akintola Olaronke, Dr. Adebajo Olufemi Adedeji, Dr. Oluyemi Monisola Olubunmi and Dr. Olaiwaye Tunde Alex.
