Dr. Oluwakemi Adenuga is a Nigerian anesthesiologist in training at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Ogun State. With a global perspective on anesthesia, pain management, and public health, she embodies the spirit of service and advocacy. In this interview, Dr. Adenuga takes us through her journey from a childhood dream to a budding career in medicine and her vision for the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
Why did you choose a career in medicine?
When you have a nurse anesthetist father and an educationist mother, you’re bound to draw inspiration from them. My father’s dedication to patient care and my mother’s commitment to education were two powerful influences growing up. I was a curious child, always reading, always asking questions. Caring for the sick and being fascinated by how illnesses could be treated became my passion early on. In no time, becoming a medical doctor evolved from a mere fantasy to a concrete goal. Now, I am privileged to be pursuing anesthesiology training at OOUTH, Ogun State.
Do you think Nigerians have adequate access to quality healthcare?
According to the World Health Organization, Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is about ensuring that everyone can access quality health services without financial hardship. It’s central to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 3.8. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, the reality is that many still lack access to basic healthcare services. There’s a significant gap between policy and practice. Advocacy, sensitization, and grassroots outreach are essential to bridging this gap and making healthcare truly accessible for all.
What branch of medicine are you specializing in?
I’m currently specializing in anesthesiology at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital. Anesthesia is a crucial specialty that ensures patient safety and comfort during surgical procedures, childbirth, and critical care. It’s a field that requires precision, vigilance, and compassion—all qualities that resonate deeply with me.
Tell us about your family background and how it influenced your career choice.
I was born in Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State, to parents who exemplified resilience and dedication. My father, a nurse anesthetist, introduced me to the world of perioperative care, while my mother, an educationist, instilled in me the value of hard work and continuous learning. They both worked tirelessly, balancing multiple responsibilities, and that taught me to embrace hard work as a path to excellence.
Where did you receive your medical training?
I earned my medical degree from Ternopil National Medical University in Ukraine, graduating at the top of my class. After medical school, I began my anesthesiology training at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital in Ogun State. During this period, I also completed the University of Minnesota’s Global Online Pain Fellowship, gaining advanced training in pain management and perioperative care under the mentorship of leading experts. I further broadened my perspective through exposure to US practice and collaborating on global health projects at Massachusetts General Hospital. Additionally, I received specialized training in media and information literacy from UNESCO/Athabasca University, behavioral science in public policy through the World Bank, and leadership and management in health from the University of Washington.
How did you kick off your medical career?
I started by organizing health education sessions in remote communities and serving as a general physician. My focus has always been on impact rather than prestige. Today, as an anesthesiologist in training, I am committed to elevating perioperative care in both advanced and resource-constrained settings. Beyond the clinical setting, I am a published author of two health-focused books and a public health advocate, appearing on television and radio to promote health literacy and preventive care.
You are also known for your passion for CPR training. Can you tell us more about that?
Absolutely. I believe CPR is a universal life-saving skill that everyone should know. To that end, I have organized CPR training sessions for athletic clubs, university students, and secondary school students. ‘CPR should be a love language everyone can speak,’ is a mantra I live by. Timely intervention can be the difference between life and death, and we must all be equipped to act when necessary.
What is your long-term vision as an anesthesiologist?
My vision is to inspire and mentor the next generation of anesthesiologists while bridging the gap between advanced medical training and grassroots healthcare delivery. Ultimately, I hope to serve as a faculty member at a leading academic institution, combining research, clinical practice, and mentorship to drive impactful change. At the core, my mission remains to advocate for accessible, equitable healthcare, particularly for underserved communities in Nigeria.
What advice do you have for young, aspiring medical professionals, especially women?
Pursue your passion relentlessly. Do not let societal expectations or gender stereotypes stifle your dreams. If you are driven by a genuine desire to make a difference, the sky is not the limit—it’s only the beginning.