In a remarkable demonstration of skill and dedication, Captain AO Akinuli of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has emerged as a double award winner at the 66th Annual Scientific Conference of the West African College of Surgeons (WACS), held from February 8–12, 2026, at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
The conference, themed “Capacity Building in Surgery: Developing the Next Generation of Surgeons in West Africa,” brought together over 1,000 surgeons, medical researchers, and policymakers from across the region.
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Prestigious Conference Under Distinguished Leadership
The week-long conference serves as a key platform for sharing surgical expertise, discussing innovations in training, and addressing access and equity in healthcare across West Africa. The opening ceremony was graced by President John Dramani Mahama, who was officially installed as Grand Patron of the College.
In his remarks, President Mahama emphasized the crucial role surgeons play in advancing health, dignity, and productivity across the region. He also commended the College for fostering regional cooperation and highlighted the contributions of pioneering surgeons whose mentorship has shaped medical practice for generations.
WACS, founded in 1960 and headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, oversees professional standards, postgraduate education, and fellowship examinations for surgeons across West Africa. Its annual scientific conference is a flagship event where members present research, participate in eponymous lectures, and exchange ideas to improve surgical care.
The 2026 edition included poster presentations, hands-on workshops, and sessions focused on oral and maxillofacial surgery, reflecting a comprehensive approach to professional development in the subregion.
Captain A.O. Akinuli’s Outstanding Achievement
Captain Akinuli, a specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, earned recognition following his exceptional performance in the 2025 Fellowship Examinations. His accolades include the ‘Prof Olayinka Otuyemi Prize for Best Dissertation Candidate’ at First Attempt and the ‘Prof Emmanuel Oladapo-Adekeye Prize’ for Best Dissertation in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. These awards mark a significant achievement not only for him personally but also for the Nigerian Air Force, which has consistently invested in specialized training for its personnel.
The NAF noted that Captain Akinuli’s accomplishment aligns with the vision of Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, Chief of the Air Staff, which emphasizes continuous learning, professional excellence, and mission-focused development.
By securing two prestigious prizes, Captain Akinuli has reinforced the Service’s commitment to cultivating world-class professionals capable of contributing to both national security and regional medical excellence.
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Beyond Personal Success: Elevating Regional Standards
The WACS conference provided a stage for the recognition of surgical innovation and collaboration across West Africa. Participants engaged in discussions on improving surgical access, integrating advanced training methods, and building a resilient pipeline of skilled surgeons. Captain Akinuli’s double honours reflect the broader impact of such initiatives, highlighting how individual achievements contribute to elevating standards across the region.
Beyond the formal sessions, the conference also featured a pre-conference surgical outreach programme, which provided surgeries for hundreds of patients across Ghana, demonstrating the tangible community impact of WACS members’ expertise. President Mahama commended this initiative, noting that such efforts exemplify the College’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes for ordinary citizens.
Captain Akinuli’s recognition reinforces the Nigerian Air Force’s position as a contributor to regional medical excellence and underscores the importance of investing in advanced training and continuous professional development. His achievements serve as an inspiration to emerging surgeons and military medical personnel alike, reflecting a commitment to both national service and the advancement of health standards in West Africa.
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