Press Statement
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of a distinguished member of our medical community, Professor (Mrs) Aihanuwa Eregie (MBBS, MD, FMCP, FACE, FEMSON, FRCP), who departed this life on Friday, May 17th, 2024.
Professor (Mrs) Eregie was a towering figure in the field of Medicine, specializing in Endocrinology and Metabolism. As a Consultant Physician and Head, Endocrinology Unit, UBTH, she dedicated her life to the advancement of medical science and the improvement of patient care.
She served as an examiner for the Faculty of Internal Medicine at the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria from 2002 until her passing and chaired the Curriculum Development Committee for the subspecialty of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism. Her leadership as Vice-President from 2017 to 2022 and subsequently as President of the Endocrinology and Metabolism Society of Nigeria from 2022 till date, underscored her commitment to her field.
Beyond her professional achievements, Professor Eregie was an exemplary educator and mentor, revered by her students and colleagues alike. Her role as a past president of the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Edo State, and her tenure as the Honourable Commissioner of Health for Edo State from March 2013 to November 2016, highlight her dedication to public healthcare service delivery and governance.
Professor Eregie was known for her calm demeanor and peaceful nature, earning the respect and admiration of all who knew her. Her legacy will endure in the many lives she touched and the vast body of knowledge she contributed to.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Professor Charles Eregie, a respected elder of our community, her children, and the entire UBTH family, who will miss her deeply.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and all those who were privileged to know and work with her. Her loss is immeasurable, but her contributions to medicine and her impact on our lives will remain forever.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.
Signed
Prof. Darlington E. Obaseki
Chief Medical Director
University of Benin Teaching Hospital
In her tribute, Lawyer and Ex Chief Diversity Officer, World Bank Group, Mrs. Juliana Oyegun, wrote: “I mourn because perhaps not everyone has that calm and reserved demeanor you were known for. This is hard for me but I can’t question God.”
