In a remarkable acknowledgement of a career defined by dedication, compassion, and excellence, Dr. Olakunle Saheed Soyege has been named recipient of the 2022 City People Outstanding Talent Award. This prestigious accolade recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill, integrity, and impact in their respective professions, with a focus on those whose work uplifts society. For Dr. Soyege, this honour is a testament to his lifelong dedication to advancing healthcare and enhancing the lives of communities across Africa.
A Journey Rooted in Service and Scholarship
Dr. Soyege’s path to this recognition is the story of a physician whose career embodies resilience, vision, and service. After earning his MBBS degree from the University of Ilorin College of Medicine, Nigeria, in 2006, he completed his medical internship at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital in 2008. From the beginning, Dr. Soyege embarked on a mission to deliver compassionate, accessible healthcare to underserved populations.
His early professional years saw him practising in Lagos at Osuntuyi Medical Centre and Jaiyeola Clinics, where he provided comprehensive primary care, preventive healthcare services, and community health education. These formative experiences deepened his understanding of the systemic barriers patients face and solidified his commitment to holistic, patient-centred care.
In 2011, seeking to broaden his expertise, Dr. Soyege joined the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine in South Africa, undertaking postgraduate rotations in family medicine at King Edward VIII Hospital. His training there sharpened his skills in managing both acute and chronic conditions while emphasising preventive health measures.
By 2013, Dr. Soyege had become a cornerstone of Mamelodi Regional Hospital in Pretoria, where he served in the Emergency Medicine Department before transitioning to Internal Medicine. During this tenure, he gained widespread respect for his work in managing complex medical cases, mentoring younger clinicians, and leading initiatives to enhance chronic disease management protocols. His tireless efforts significantly contributed to improved patient outcomes and strengthened the care delivery systems.
Champion of Holistic and Preventive Medicine
Throughout his professional career, Dr. Soyege has consistently shown a strong commitment to holistic health. His philosophy combines preventive medicine, lifestyle counselling, and community involvement to empower patients and lessen the burden of disease. In 2021, he founded DR. O.S. SOYEGE Medical Practice in Clayville, Gauteng, creating a centre of excellence in family medicine that emphasises chronic disease management, immunisations, preventive care, and wellness education.
Dr. Soyege’s impact extends beyond his medical practice. His contributions to medical education and research have informed his evidence-based medical practices across specialities. He has delivered presentations on critical topics, including emergency triage systems, the complexities of hypertension treatment, and patient safety in acute care settings. These efforts have positioned him as both a thoughtful leader and an advocate for quality improvement in healthcare delivery.
Selection Process: The Road to the 2022 City People Outstanding Talent Award
The City People Outstanding Talent Award is among the most respected honours in the region, distinguished by its rigorous and transparent selection process. Each year, the City People Awards Committee solicits nominations from professional associations, community leaders, and the public. Nominees are evaluated based on a comprehensive review of their career accomplishments, contributions to societal development, adherence to ethical standards, and innovation in their fields.
A panel comprising eminent figures in academia, public service, and past award recipients undertakes the selection process. The judges scrutinise the candidates’ body of work, weighing testimonials, documented achievements, and measurable impact on their communities. In Dr. Soyege’s case, his unwavering dedication to improving health outcomes, his leadership in healthcare delivery, and his service to marginalised communities distinguished him in a competitive field of nominees. His work embodies the values of excellence, service, and integrity that the award seeks to celebrate.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Continuous Learning
Beyond his clinical and administrative achievements, Dr. Soyege is recognised for his contributions to medical education and his commitment to lifelong learning. He has participated in and presented numerous professional conferences and workshops, including updates in cardiology, best practices in emergency medicine, and infectious disease management. His research presentations—such as those on the Use of Calcium Channel Blocker Antihypertensives, Erectile Dysfunction, and Emergency Department Triage Systems—have offered valuable insights to the medical literature and have helped improve evidence-based medical practices in Nigeria and South Africa.
Dr. Soyege’s commitment to mentorship has also shaped future generations of healthcare professionals. Colleagues and trainees alike commend his selflessness, approachable nature, clinical acumen, and dedication to teaching.
Building Healthier Communities
At the core of Dr. Soyege’s work is a steadfast belief that healthcare is a human right. His career has been dedicated to ensuring that all individuals—regardless of socioeconomic status—have access to high-quality, compassionate care. From managing critical cases in emergency settings to overseeing the management of chronic diseases in family medicine, Dr. Soyege has consistently prioritised equity in healthcare delivery.
His efforts to build long-term, trust-based relationships with patients have not only improved individual health outcomes but also contributed to broader public health goals. Through outreach, patient education, and advocacy, he has helped address health disparities and promote preventive care across the communities he serves.
A Well-Deserved Honour and a Call to Future Service
The 2022 City People Outstanding Talent Award not only recognises Dr. Soyege’s past accomplishments but also highlights the promise of his continued contributions to medicine and society. It is a testament to his unwavering dedication, resilience, and vision for a healthier future for all.
Reflecting on the award, Dr. Soyege shared his gratitude: “This award is a humbling reminder of the collective effort that drives success in healthcare. It reflects the support of my mentors, colleagues, patients, and family. Together, we can continue to build systems of care that are inclusive, effective, and compassionate.”
As he looks to the future, Dr. Soyege remains committed to advancing healthcare delivery, mentoring the next generation of physicians, and contributing to research that addresses pressing health challenges in Africa and beyond.
