Emanuel Olatunde Alaba Olanrewaju Odeku (1927–1974): First African Neurosurgeon Trained in the United States and Establisher of the National and West African Postgraduate Medical Colleges

• Published in: World neurosurgery Vol. 176; pp. 98 - 105
• Main Authors: Darko, Kwadwo, Kenfack, Yves J., Venkatesh, Pooja, Bah, Momodou G., Tissot, Marianne I.J., Barrie, Umaru, Detchou, Donald, Jabang, John N., Totimeh, Teddy
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.08.2023
• Subjects: Africa, Western; African neurosurgery; Education, Medical, Graduate - history; Education, Medical, Graduate - organization & administration; Global surgery; History, 20th Century; Humans; Latunde Odeku; Neurosurgeons - education; Neurosurgeons - history; Neurosurgery; Neurosurgery - education; Neurosurgery - history; Nigeria; United States; Nigeria; United States; Africa, Western; African neurosurgery; Neurosurgery; MBHS; Nigeria; Latunde Odeku; Global surgery
• ISSN: 1878-8750; 1878-8769
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2023.04.092

In this comprehensive historical account, the authors delve into the remarkable trajectory of Dr. Latunde E. Odeku, a pioneering figure in neurosurgery. The inspiration for this project was ignited by the discovery of the original scientific and bibliographic materials of Latunde Odeku, a renowned Nigerian neurosurgeon and the first African neurosurgeon in history. Following a thorough review of the literature and information available on Dr. Odeku, we have compiled a comprehensive and detailed analysis of his life, work, and legacy. This paper begins by introducing his childhood and early education in Nigeria, highlights his journey through medical school and residency in the United States, and follows his career and role in establishing the first neurosurgical unit in West Africa. We celebrate the life and legacy of Latunde Odeku, a trailblazing neurosurgeon whose contribution has inspired generations of medical professionals in Africa and around the world. This article sheds light on the remarkable life and achievements of Dr. Odeku and his trailblazing work for generations of doctors and researchers.