Urologists Are Mediators, Says Olaopa As Shittu Turns 70, Retires

Professor Olayiwola Shittu, a distinguished urologist and professor of surgery, marks his 70th birthday and retirement from the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. In a tribute, Prof. Tunji Olaopa, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, celebrated Shittu's extensive career and contributions to the field.

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The scarcity places enormous responsibility on specialists like Prof. Shittu, whose expertise serves patients across every stage of life .Yet perhaps nowhere is the value of the urologist more evident than in the care of the elderly. In many respects therefore, the urologist becomes a mediator in later life-a physician who stands between disease and dignity, between physical decline and restored confidence, between anxiety and hope.

Olaopa described Shittu as a respected expert in prostate cancer, reconstructive urology, and surgical outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings. He noted Shittu's dedication to advancing urology care and mentoring young surgeons throughout his career. The significance of Shittu's work is amplified by the severe shortage of urologists in Nigeria, a situation that places immense responsibility on specialists like him.

"The scarcity places enormous responsibility on specialists like Prof. Shittu, whose expertise serves patients across every stage of life," Olaopa stated. He further elaborated on the urologist's role as a "mediator in later life," bridging the gap between disease and dignity, physical decline and restored confidence, and anxiety and hope for elderly patients.

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Indeed, for many older adults, urinary disorders are not merely medical problems, they are social and psychological burdens. Loss of bladder control often leads to embarrassment, withdrawal from social life, and diminished self-esteem. Through careful diagnosis and surgical interventions where necessary, Prof. Shittu and his colleagues are celebrated all over for as long as I can remember for restoring not only bodily function, but confidence and dignity to thousands of people

Shittu's impact extends beyond clinical treatment. Olaopa highlighted how Shittu has helped countless elderly patients regain their sense of self-worth by addressing conditions like prostate diseases, urinary disorders, and erectile dysfunction. These issues often carry social and psychological burdens, leading to embarrassment and diminished self-esteem. Shittu's work, therefore, restores not only bodily function but also confidence and dignity.

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That makes him at once an evangelist and a caregiver who gives force to the truth that growing old does not have to diminish the human need for affection, companionship, and emotional connection.

Furthermore, Olaopa recognized Shittu's role in helping elderly couples maintain intimacy. By addressing conditions that can create emotional distance, Shittu acts as both an "evangelist and a caregiver," affirming that aging does not diminish the human need for affection and connection. Olaopa concluded by celebrating Shittu's "patriotic dedication in exemplary and selfless public service."

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It is in this light that I celebrate my dear friend and brother, Prof. Shittu, for your years of patriotic dedication in exemplary and selfless public service to our fatherland.