By Adesakin Adefemi
The Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta has entered a new phase of clinical leadership with the formal assumption of office by Dr. Olusola Adebisi as Head of Clinical Services, HCS. The transition was sealed during a brief but symbolic handing-over ceremony held in the HCS office on Monday, bringing to a close Dr. A.S. Adediran’s four-year tenure at the helm of the hospital’s clinical administration.
The ceremony marked both an end and a beginning for FMC Abeokuta. For Dr. Adediran, it was the culmination of four years steering the hospital’s clinical operations through demanding periods of reform, increased patient load, and evolving healthcare challenges. For Dr. Adebisi, it represented the start of a new responsibility at a centre he described as his professional home.
In his farewell remarks, Dr. Adediran reflected on the weight of the role he was vacating. “The seat is challenging and the workload is enormous, but I have no doubt that Dr. Adebisi has the capability to hold the position,” he said. He urged all departments and staff to extend the same cooperation he received during his tenure, stressing that clinical success at a tertiary facility depends on collective effort.
The outgoing HCS formally presented his handing-over note and key documents to his successor, signifying a smooth transfer of responsibility. He also pledged to remain available as a resource, stating that his commitment to FMC Abeokuta does not end with his tenure. The gesture was received with applause by staff and colleagues present at the event.
Responding, Dr. Olusola Adebisi paid tribute to Dr. Adediran, describing him as both a mentor and “a good brother” whose simplicity made the office easy to manage. He acknowledged the reputation his predecessor had built over the years and expressed hope of building on that foundation.
“I love FMC so much. I have been here since I was a House Officer, and I want to serve and make it work,” Dr. Adebisi said. He pledged to exceed expectations and lead the clinical department with diligence, transparency, and focus on patient care. “I pray God helps me to do my best and exceed my predecessor,” he added.
The ceremony drew senior officials and staff across disciplines. Present were the Director of Administration, Mr. E.K. Apanisile; Head of Nursing Services, Mrs. A. Fagoyinbo; executives of the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria, MDCAN; the Chaplain of the Chapel, Dr. Olunuga; Dr. Nathaniel Oni; and other well-wishers who came to witness the transition.
Speakers at the event highlighted Dr. Adediran’s humility, accessibility, and leadership style as qualities that earned him respect across the hospital. Prayers were offered for his next phase, while Dr. Adebisi received words of encouragement to maintain an open-door policy and listen to staff at all levels to sustain harmony.
The event wrapped up with a closing prayer led by Dr. Jabez Akindipe, asking for wisdom, strength, and unity for the new clinical leadership. With the transition complete, attention now shifts to Dr. Adebisi’s agenda for strengthening clinical services, improving patient outcomes, and upholding FMC Abeokuta’s reputation as a leading federal tertiary hospital.
