By Sola Ogundipe

In a moment of national and continental pride, the Federal Government has commended frontline fertility expert and co-pioneer of IVF research in West Africa, Prof Oladapo Ashiru on his re-election as the Secretary-General of the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS).

Ashiru was re-elected IFFS  Secretary-General at the 2025 World Congress in Tokyo for another three-year term.

The IFFS is a global organization uniting national fertility societies to promote excellence in reproductive health through education, research, and international cooperation.

At the  Congress, Ashiru was re-elected as Secretary-General as the first Black individual to be elected to the position for a second term, underscoring his leadership and commitment to advancing global reproductive medicine.

The feat marks a historic milestone because Ashiru is the first Black person to hold this esteemed position in the organication’s  57-year history.

 In recognition of the feat, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa,  in a statement, highlighted the significance of the achievement, emphasizing its importance.

“On behalf of myself and the Federal Ministry of Education, I extend warm congratulations and profound commendation on your re-election as Secretary-General of the International Federation of Fertility Societies (IFFS).

“This historic achievement, being the first Black person to hold this office in the organization’s 57-year history, is a moment of immense pride, not only for Nigeria but for the entire African continent.”

Alausa attributed Ashiru’s re-election to his exemplary leadership, distinguished career in reproductive endocrinology, and deep commitment to advancing scientific excellence and global cooperation.

“Through your work, you have upheld the highest standards of scholarship and professionalism, bringing international recognition to Nigeria’s scientific community.

“The Federal Ministry of Education especially acknowledges your lifelong dedication to learning, research, and mentorship. Your contributions continue to inspire a generation of scholars and practitioners in the medical sciences, and your global stature affirms the power of education and perseverance.”

He further acknowledged Ashiru’s dedication to upholding the highest standards of scholarship and professionalism, which have brought international recognition to Nigeria’s scientific community.

 “Your global stature affirms the power of education and perseverance. As you continue your second term in this prestigious role, please be assured of the Federal Ministry of Education’s support and appreciation. We thank you for your continued efforts in uplifting the scientific reputation of Nigeria and for your enduring contributions to knowledge and humanity,” Alausa affirmed.

The 2025 IFFS World Congress, themed “Diversity, Sustainability, and Resilience in Reproductive Medicine,” brought together almost 4,000 fertility experts, researchers, and practitioners from over 95 countries around the world to exchange knowledge and innovations in the field.

 Ashiru led a delegation of Nigerian fertility experts during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Embassy in Japan. On the team were the President of the Association for Fertility and Reproductive Health (AFRH), Prof. Preye Fiebai; Vice President of the African Federation of Fertility Societies (AFFS), Dr. Faye Iketubosin, and 10 other distinguished professionals. They were warmly received by the Chargé d’Affaires, Mrs. Florence Adeseke, and other embassy staff, who praised their contributions to promoting  Nigeria’s visibility and leadership in international reproductive health.