Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako: A Multifaceted Leader and Catalyst for Change
On Wednesday, July 2nd, 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, presented the second group of his Ministerial-Designates to the Senate President, facilitated by his Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. Among the 19 fresh nominees introduced, one notable individual is Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Adeboye Salako.
Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, renowned as the inaugural President of the Majo Noble Club of Ayetoro (MANCA), stands as a stalwart in the fields of Public Health, civic engagement, politics, analytical discourse, community mobilization, literature, and radio presentation. He is an accomplished Public Health Physician, a devoted health advocate, and an accomplished communicator. His academic accomplishments include an MBBS degree from the esteemed University of Lagos and a Master’s in Public Health from Lagos State University. He is also a certified colposcopist and sonologist.
Throughout his professional journey, he has contributed significantly across a range of institutions, leaving an indelible mark. His footprint includes notable roles at institutions such as Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Onicha General Hospital in Ebonyi State, St. Raphael Hospital in Lagos, Mucas Hospital in Lagos, and the Lagos State Health Service Commission, where he ascended to the esteemed position of Senior Medical Officer before venturing towards new horizons.
Notably, in 2007, owing to his impactful community initiatives and youth mobilization efforts, Salako was appointed as a commissioner in Ogun State, a remarkable achievement as he was not affiliated with any political party. His service extended across three pivotal ministries – Agriculture, Housing, and Health – where his innovative contributions enhanced public health and the overall well-being of the populace. His remarkable achievements were acknowledged and celebrated by esteemed organizations and bodies, including The Nigerian Tribune Newspaper, Lions International (District 404), Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association, Property and Environmental Writers Association of Nigeria, Lagos Housing Fair, Nigeria Union of Journalists, National Association of Resident Doctors (LUTH Branch), and the Yewa Traditional Council, among others.
In 2020, he assumed the role of Chairman for the Ogun Hospitals Management Board and was duly recognized as the finest government parastatal Chairman in the State for the year 2021 by Gateway News Magazine.
Dr. Salako’s dedication to leadership was evident during his tenure as a student, where he undertook various roles such as President of the Association of Medical Students at the University of Lagos and Vice President of the Federation of African Medical Students’ Associations. He was also an active Parliamentarian and Caucus Leader in the University of Lagos Student Union.
His professional affiliations encompass memberships in esteemed bodies such as the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, Association of Public Health Physicians of Nigeria, and the Nigeria Medical Association. In 1993/1994, he held the position of Publicity Secretary for the Lagos State branch of the NMA.
Dr. Salako’s national service through the NYSC program in 1994/1995 garnered him recognition as one of the top 10 youth corps members in Old Abia State. His dedication to eradicating Guinea Worm in the Onicha local government area of Old Abia State led to him being awarded the esteemed Golden Handshake Award by President Jimmy Carter of the United States.
His philanthropic spirit continues to thrive as he contributes his expertise to various voluntary endeavors. He currently serves as a member of the Advisory Board of Quality Management Development Institute, Lagos, a member of the Afisu Olabimtan Foundation in Ilaro, Secretary of the Board of Trustees for the HOW Foundation in Abeokuta, and Secretary of the Board of Trustees for the Ayetoro Central Initiative for Development. Additionally, he holds positions on the board of several profit-making organizations, notably Klasik Healthtech and Pharma Nigeria Ltd, Remade Pharmacy and Health Stores, and SetUp Solar Nigeria Ltd.
Dr. Salako’s global outlook is exemplified through his participation in conferences and paper presentations across professional platforms both within Nigeria and abroad. His engagements have taken him to cities like Accra, Ghana, London, UK, New Delhi, India, and Ottawa, Canada.
Beyond his illustrious career, Dr. Salako cherishes his role as a family man, being married with children. His life’s narrative is one of remarkable achievements, impactful contributions, and an unwavering commitment to progress and betterment.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
