Two lecturers at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Dr. Najeem Idowu and Dr. Quadri Jelili, have urged Nigerians to prioritise preventive healthcare, healthy eating and responsible body care to promote longer and more productive lives.
The lecturers made the call in separate presentations as guest speakers at the grand finale of the 2026 Prof. R.O. Rom Kalilu Maolid Nabiyy celebration, held in Ogbomoso on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
The celebration, which marked its 25th public edition, was chaired by High Chief Yusuf Kasali Oladipo, the Abese of Ogbomosoland, and attended by principal officers of LAUTECH, deans, heads of departments, members of the university community and academics from various tertiary institutions.
Also in attendance were Dr. M.T. Jimoh, Grand Khalifa, Tijaniya, Ede, Osun State; Sheikh Habeeb Ayilara, Chief Imam, Ogbomoso Palace; Sheikh Muhideen Fate; Oba Sulaiman Iwinkunle, the Alaroje of Arojeland; Alhaji Rasheed Ayinla (Ragaray); Dr. A.O. Akanni; Dr. Fola Ajiboye; Alhaji A. Olowookere, a former Director of Audit at LAUTECH; Prof. Dele Afolabi; Islamic title holders; and leaders and representatives of various Muslim organisations.
The programme, which was preceded by free medical screening, featured tani’a (poetic praises and eulogies dedicated to the birth and noble status of the Prophet Muhammad), special prayers and the presentation of cash prizes to schoolchildren who emerged winners of Qur’an recitation and quiz competitions held earlier.
As part of the activities, the organisers had earlier visited the State Hospital in Ogbomoso, where less-privileged patients were offered financial assistance.
Speaking on ‘The Surgeon and Preventive Health’, Dr. Idowu, a consultant urologist at LAUTECH, called on Nigerians to embrace preventive healthcare through regular medical screening, healthy living and adequate water consumption.
He said individuals should take greater responsibility for their health by undergoing regular medical examinations, noting that early detection of health problems could facilitate timely intervention and help prevent complications.
Dr. Idowu also spoke on preventive care and personal health maintenance, general and surgical diseases, as well as the various levels of prevention in relation to surgical conditions.
He advised people to consume an appropriate amount of water daily and adopt other healthy habits that promote physical wellbeing.
The consultant urologist noted that greater emphasis on preventive healthcare would enable individuals to identify potential health problems early and reduce the burden associated with avoidable diseases.
Similarly, Dr. Jelili, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, urged Muslims to adopt healthy eating habits and regard their bodies as a trust from Allah.
In his lecture, titled ‘Healthy Eating and Responsible Stewardship of the Body’, he stressed the importance of moderation, balanced diets and wholesome food choices, while warning against excessive consumption of sugar, salt and processed foods.
He also encouraged food sharing, waste reduction, regular exercise and seeking professional healthcare whenever necessary.
Speaking on the significance of the celebration, Prof. Kalilu said Maolid Nabiyy provides a good platform to thank God for His mercies and promote the virtues of Prophet Muhammad, whom God described as the best of mankind.
He expressed gratitude to all attendees and individuals who contributed in various ways to the success of the year’s celebration.
Prof. Kalilu disclosed that he had organised the celebration for 40 years, explaining that he privately held it for 15 years before the public celebration commenced 25 years ago.
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