Nigeria’s first female oncologist, Dr Theresa Elumelu- Kupoliyi, was on Wednesday buried amidst a deluge of tributes.
Elumelu-Kupoliyi, a Consultant on Radiation Oncology at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, died on May 10.
Until her death, she was also the Head of Department of Radiation Department at the University of Ibadan.
The late don became the first female radiation oncologist in Nigeria after passing her National Post Graduate Fellowship Examination (FMCR) in 1999.
In a sermon at the funeral service held at the Church of Ascension, New Bodija, Ibadan, Rev. Father Anthony Ewherido, described the death as a colossal loss to the country.
Ewherido , the Vice Rector, SS Peter and Paul Major Seminary, Ibadan, said the death was painful, adding that it was only God who could comfort the family members and others she left behind.
“Death is terminal and no-one knows when and where he would go; we must keep vigil and live our today as preparation for tomorrow.
“Heaven is for God’s friends, so we must strive to be a friend of God and be good to all the people we come in contact with,” he said.
The cleric, in particular, urged women in challenging careers to emulate the life of the late Elumelu-Kupoliyi, saying she was successful in career, home and church.
Archbishop Felix Alaba Job of Ibadan ArchDiocese blessed the corpse before the procession to the interment service attended by only family members.
Prof. Oladapo Campbell, the pioneer Head of Radiation Department at the University of Ibadan, described late Elumelu-Kupoliyi’s death as a loss to radiation oncology practice in Nigeria.
“Indeed heaven has gained a Saint. May her gentle soul rest in peace,” he said.
The husband of the deceased, Dr Funsho Kupoliyi, described her as a good wife with abundant grace.
“Theresa was a wonderful soul that personified integrity, strength, hard work, truthfulness, compassion for people and absolute faith in Jesus Christ,” he said.
Dignitaries at the burial service included the Chief Medical Director of UCH, Prof. Temitope Alonge, as well as family members and friends.
The late physician was 53 years old and was survived by her husband and two children.
