Department of

Anaesthesia

Welcome to Department of Anaesthesia

On behalf of the entire Department of Anaesthesia, University of Lagos. It gives me immense pleasure to welcome you all to our department.   

Anaesthesia is a dynamic and evolving field that plays a critical role in modern medicine. From providing safe surgical care to managing pain and supporting critically ill patients, anesthetist are the unsung heroes working quietly behind the scenes. 

Here at the University of Lagos, our Department of Anaesthesia is at the forefront of training highly skilled professionals, advancing research, and contributing to the continuous improvement of patient care across the country. 

As you step into this environment, you will find a team of dedicated faculty, passionate staff, and an atmosphere that encourages curiosity, growth, and collaboration. 

To our new students—welcome to the beginning of what we hope will be a fulfilling and inspiring journey. We are here to guide, support, and challenge you every step of the way. 

To our visitors—we hope this visit offers you a meaningful glimpse into our work, our values, and the incredible scope of this specialty. 

Thank you all for being here today. We look forward to growing, learning, and succeeding together. 

Welcome once again! 

Prof. Oyebola O. Adekola

Head of Department (HOD)

Our Vision

Its vision is to be recognized as a center of excellence in anaesthesia education, research, and clinical care, contributing significantly to the advancement of healthcare delivery in Nigeria. 

Our Mission

The Department’s mission is to provide high-quality, comprehensive education and training in anaesthesia, equipping students and professionals with the knowledge, skills, and ethical values required to excel in the field.  

About the Department of Anaesthesia

The Department of Anaesthesia was established by the Act of Parliament in 1962.   

Structure and Functions 

Special area of interest of members include: Trauma, Pediatric, Obstetrics, Cardiothoracic, and regional anaesthesia. In addition, Perioperative Medicine, and Intensive Care. 

Education and Training 

The Department offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs aimed at developing future anaesthesia specialists.  

Undergraduate Professional Programme 

The undergraduate program is integrated into the MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) curriculum, and BDS (Bachelor of dentistry) providing medical and dental students with foundational knowledge in anaesthesia. 500L Medical and 400L Dental students rotate through the department for four weeks anaesthesia posting. In addition, 600L medical students for two weeks critical care medicine posting. The teaching process includes lectures, tutorial, demonstration on simulators, and active participation in operative anaesthesia and critical care as needed. Students are encouraged to use the self-instruction package outside the school hours.  The department is also involved in the teaching and training of Anesthetic Technicians, Theater Nurses and midwives, and physiotherapy students  

Postgraduate Professional Programme 

The department runs two postgraduate programmes viz Diploma in Anaesthesia and Residency training program for the Fellowship of the National Postgraduate Medical College and West African College of Surgeons. 

Research and Innovation 

The Department is actively involved in cutting-edge research that spans various aspects of anaesthesia, including drug development, anesthetic techniques, pain management, and critical care practices. Research output from the department has contributed significantly to both local and global medical knowledge. 

Through collaborations with international institutions and participation in research projects, the department continues to push the boundaries of anaesthesia science, ensuring that its practices remain aligned with the latest developments in the field. 

Recent Developments 

In recent years, the department has continued to modernize its training programs, integrating new technologies and advancements in the field of anaesthesia. The introduction of simulation-based learning and advanced airway management techniques has further enhanced the quality of education provided. 

Additionally, the department has expanded its role in critical care education, training anesthesiologists not only in perioperative care but also in managing critically ill patients across a variety of specialties 

Biography of the Department

The Department of Anaesthesia at the University of Lagos is a leading institution dedicated to the training, research, and clinical practice of anaesthesia and critical care.  

1962: The Department of Anaesthesia at the University of Lagos College of Medicine has a rich history, starting with the establishment of the Lagos Medical School and Lagos University Teaching Hospital in 1962. It began with clinical anaesthesia in August 1962, led by four Canadian doctors, headed by Prof. Shirley Flemming, marking the start of clinical anaesthesia in Nigeria.  

1968: Prof. V. Fowler became the second Head of Department.  

1972: The residency training program in anaesthesia was initiated.  The headship of the department transferred to Prof D.J.O. Ffoulkes-Crabbe in 1978 and has been held by a number of distinguished anesthetists. 

The department plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of anaesthesia professionals in Nigeria and beyond. 

Clinical Practice and Service Delivery

The Department of Anaesthesia is an integral part of the University of Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where faculty members and trainees provide anaesthesia services for a wide range of surgeries, from elective procedures to high-risk, life-saving surgeries. The department is recognized for its excellence in perioperative care, pain management, and intensive care unit (ICU) management, supporting patients through various stages of critical illness and recovery. 

Faculty and Expertise

The department boasts a diverse group of highly qualified faculty members, many of whom are recognized leaders in their fields. Faculty members are dedicated to advancing knowledge in anaesthesia while also fostering a collaborative, student-centered learning environment. In addition to their teaching responsibilities, they also actively engage in clinical service, research, and mentoring of postgraduate students. 

The department’s faculty also collaborate with healthcare professionals across various disciplines to provide integrated care and improve patient outcomes in the perioperative and critical care settings. 

Community Outreach and Service

In keeping with the University’s commitment to societal development, the Department of Anaesthesia is actively involved in community service programs aimed at improving public health. These include educational seminars, workshops, and outreach initiatives designed to raise awareness about anaesthesia safety, pain management, and emergency medical care. 

The Department of Anaesthesia, University of Lagos, stands as a beacon of excellence in anaesthesia education, research, and clinical practice. With a strong commitment to advancing medical care and training the next generation of anaesthesia professionals, the department continues to make an indelible impact on the healthcare landscape in Nigeria and across the West African region. 

General offices

Department leadership

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Dean

Prof. James P.A Oluwatosin

Dean

Prof. James P.A Oluwatosin

Dean

Prof. James P.A Oluwatosin

Programmes

Take a significant step in your career journey by investing in your professional development through our faculty’s specialized certificate programs, designed to provide you with in-depth knowledge and practical skills in a focused area of study.

Undergraduate Programmes

Student Opportunities

Discover the exciting opportunities awaiting students within this department. Here, you can explore pathways for intellectual growth, engage in stimulating learning experiences, and lay the foundation for future academic and professional success in a specific field of study.

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