Another icon is gone! Prof was my dermatology teacher at Ife from 1985 -1986. He was a dedicated teacher who ensured that we all understood his chosen discipline. He was also very compassionate and no skin lesion was too ugly to touch or feel. You could sense the patient's relief when the skin lesion that may have tormented them for years finally had a name and could be treated. He impacted not only us his students but also the entire medical community in Nigeria by his contribution to research in dermatology. His contribution to HIV/AIDS research was phenomenal and was crucial in understanding and destigmatizing the disease.

Prof constantly sought ways to innovate and improve on the armamentarium of tools to be used in diagnosis of skin disorders. He was one of the first dermatologists in Nigeria to employ allergen testing in diagnosis of contact allergic dermatitis. To Prof, dermatology was like art to be experienced by his students and he took us on trips to the Ilesa Prisons where we further improved on our diagnostic skills in dermatology.
Prof, you were a great teacher and mentor and you will be missed. May you continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord.

Adetoun Ejilemele (Class of 1980/87)

This tribute is written by Abeni our youngest daughter your granddaughter

"One wish that I have and seriously hope to actualize is that all my children and grandchildren would come to Nigeria for a
visit and reunion. The earlier this happens the better!
Do you think that would be possible within the next 5 years?"
It's been exactly five years since my grandfather wrote me those words. The last words he ever wrote to me. And I deeply regret not fulfilling his wish.
He was a loving grandfather and I always told him everything about my life. He never stopped saying how proud he was of me and my achievements. He was always trying to understand and help me and I am very thankful that I can call him my grandfather.
I missed everyday without a mail from you Opa Femi. I love you and I always will.
Your granddaughter Abeni"One wish that I have and seriously hope to actualize is that all my children and grandchildren would come to Nigeria for a
visit and reunion. The earlier this happens the better!
Do you think that would be possible within the next 5 years?"
It's been exactly five years since my grandfather wrote me those words. The last words he ever wrote to me. And I deeply regret not fulfilling his wish.
He was a loving grandfather and I always told him everything about my life. He never stopped saying how proud he was of me and my achievements. He was always trying to understand and help me and I am very thankful that I can call him my grandfather.
I missed everyday without a mail from you Opa Femi. I love you and I always will.
Your granddaughter Abeni

This is such a difficult thing to do because it still feels so unreal. Each time I come to the house, I have the feeling that I would see you.

When I was much younger, my father used to tell us stories about you and the friendship you shared. He'd mention how you would go fishing together, how you would park very far away from the ram market and trek the rest of the way so that the sellers would not hike their prices on seeing you. They were always stories that made me laugh. When I chose to study at Obafemi Awolowo University, he informed you and you said I could visit the house anytime I wanted to.

During my 5th year in the university, I met your last son whom I eventually got married to. I vividly remember my first visit to the house and how comfortable you made me feel. You cracked many jokes and made me feel at home. From then onwards, I didn't feel any different from your biological children.

Grandpa, you were such a wonderful person with a very large heart and with so much love to give. You were the epitome of selflessness. I would surely miss you, your grandsons would miss you terribly too. In Mimoseoluwa's words, "why do best friends have to die?" You were his best friend. You are definitely in the best place now surrounded by eternal peace.

~ Lots of love, Modupe.

This is the hardest tribute I may ever have to write. I will focus on the positive.

You invited me into your home in my year 2, when my dad relocated to the UK, and I was living alone in our flat in Awe. You drove over one day and insisted I pack my things. I was kind of stubborn and loved my independence, but you insisted, and I obeyed… Our relationship grew from an uncle to a father and my boss.

I remember our long walks around Kukumada. You enjoyed visiting the streams hunting the birds and tilling the soil. I guess you were all about the process and not the “game” because I can’t remember that we ever caught a bird or a fish. I do remember the routine. You would put on hunting clothes and shoes, carry your rifle and then we would go deep inside Kukumada. We would wait patiently and quietly for the birds to come. We watched them eat. Just as they were finished eating, you will shoot and miss. It was like you were telling the birds to go home.

As we went on walks through the village, you told me stories of your childhood, you told stories of crushed dreams, struggles and triumphs. You talked about your plans of becoming the village doctor after retirement. Your plan was to go from house to house and do home calls. Your plan was to give medical care to those who could not afford it.

You fondly called me "SN” or “madam Sece”. Madam Sece, because during my undergraduate years you gave me a student job as your secretary. My assignment was to invite participants to the first international conference on Ethics and AIDS in Nigeria. This job made us close because I had to accompany you most of the time for meetings. I learned a lot watching the way you treated your staff. You respected everyone. You served but never demanded to be served.

I fondly called you uncle IJ. I still remember instructions when cutting a piece of cake. You would say,” make it a paper-thin slice”. I may be exaggerating when I say you count the mangoes on the mango tree to see if anyone had plucked a mango. I won’t write about the coffee filters or tea leaves, but you did know how to look after the planet by reusing stuff.

The last years were challenging for you uncle. My comfort now is that, you are finally getting some rest. I am happy you and aunty visited me in Denmark three years ago around my 50th birthday, because for the last time; I got to play your secretary, listen to your jokes, laughter, stories, dreams and serve you your cold glass of beer. I even got a pass mark on the wine.

REST IN PEACE UNCLE
Egbinola (SN)

Dear Grandpa,
reading all these tributes and seeing how much you ment to all these people makes things just a little sadder.
You must have been a great mentor, a great father, grandfather, husband, teacher, doctor and so on.
I wish I could have gotten to know you better, I wish we wouldn't have been left with this hole in our lifes.
We are mourning the loss of a family member, but even more all the missed opportunities, and that there won't ever be the chance to make up for the time, we didn't share with you.
We will forever carry you in our hearts, we will protect the heritage that you gave us and that flows in our genes like a treasure.

I'm proud to be your grandchild, I miss you and I always will.

Prof. Soyinka was a great, humble and gentle achiever whose accomplishments are blessings to those coming after in the field of Dermatology and Medicine.

My Professor of many things

We would go for hours on fishing trips especially on Sunday mornings. It started at Opa Dam on the Ife campus with mum in tow though she later escaped for reasons I never bothered to ask. But I suspect it might not be unrelated to the dinghy that deflated in the middle of Opa Dam. It continued when we moved permanently to Kukumada in 1985 and we would fish in the pond at home, the river at the end of the land and Asejire amongst other random water spots. I recall him discovering a lake that was formed at an abandoned quarry somewhere around Adegbayi and then deciding to take us there to see if we could catch some previously unidentified fish species. We caught nothing - not even the petulant frog or the temperamental river crab ! On trips we caught nothing, which in his view was because the fishes had gone to church, he convinced me that the best thing was to find other lucky fishermen (please interpret as those who fish for a living), buy their catch and pass it on to mum as the result of our hours of hard labor. We rarely spoke while fishing because he said it drove the fish away. Just us, the flies, the kotokans (sandflies) and the baits – which were usually freshly dug earthworms. He had another spin that fish in Nigerian waters were too smart to fall for imported synthetic bait – with hindsight I am convinced that this was just another one of his legendary “Ijebu” tactics that all the family members know him for.

The house at Kukumada and the experiments that happened in it simply tell the story of who dad really was - a man who was determined to live his life the way he wanted aided by his ever supportive wife. I recall our journey to food self sufficiency, most likely another “ijebu” infused experiment. In the process Tinuke, Deji and I formed the habit of naming almost everything we had from plants to animals. For example there was Mr Greedy Tree ( a guava tree that opted to over produce in and out of seasons) which resulted in him and his accomplice coming up with the idea of making several things out of guava including jam. With this discovery, imported jam disappeared from the Kukumada residence. Lard ( melted pig fat) replaced cooking oil and many more real life practices of the economic concept of “substitution effect” were meted on us. There were some exciting experiments like when he tried to raise a baby antelope and we had to feed it with milk out of a feeding bottle. The antelope eventually died. There was the monkey he bought but Mrs. Accomplice in a rare turncoat manner seemed not to be in support and it had to be returned. I think there was also a failed attempt to bring a donkey down from the North. I am not sure what led to that never happening - Mrs. Accomplice or the cost ? I also recall attempts at making ham from the pigs we raised and making beer from corn/ guinea corn we planted. Both experiments fortunately failed so he went back to buying ham when he could afford it and buying beer brewed by a real brewery rather than drinking from his bootleg brewery of Kukumada.


He had a pet name for everyone which could be as simple as turning your name upside down or labeling you based on something he found unique about you. There is a lady he fondly called “Perücke” German for Wig. If you knew him and you don’t know your pet name, then you were unfortunately named by we, the children. For example there was a very fine gentleman that we named Baba Tolontolo. Poor Baba Tolontolo passed on last year never knowing his pet name. He loved mischief and perpetuated it with a deadpan face. The only thing that gave him away for those who knew him was that sparkle that came from his eyes once the game was on. A hapless guest was once given a frying pan and told that if she could get the chicken to lay directly in the frying pan it would come out piping hot and immediately fry itself into an omelette. She actually believed the spin and spent some time chasing chickens in the garden. The end result was a sweaty guest and a highly satisfied mischief maker. The guest eventually did get an omelette, but it came out of Mrs Accomplice’s ever open kitchen.


Dear Dad,

I honestly thought I was prepared for your death but I have just discovered that the bond between a wonderful and present parent and child is not easily severed.

Thank you for the way you lived your life through which I have learnt what being responsible means and how to love and care for family.

Thank you for sharing some of your regrets in life with me as it has made me conscious of not repeating them. 

Thank you for raising us differently, gifting us a questioning mind and building our confidence that being different is okay.

Thank you for introducing us to good food, good wine, good music, good books and the whole essence of living a fulfilling life.

Finally, thank you for the Ijebu Traits.

We are all grown now and would look after Mrs Accomplice aka Mama Show for you. So please cease the worries and finally Rest In Peace.

Much Love, Ayodele

Tribute to Prof Femi Soyinka
From Daramola Oluwaseun

I remember the first day I met Prof Femi Soyinka. It was during my interview for a position in NELA. He was so unassuming that I didn't pay special attention to him, but instead strove to impress the other members on the panel. I recall him peering at me, but I courageously continued to reel out my skills and qualifications to other members on the panel. When I later got to know who he was during the post-interview gist that followed, I prayed that I would receive favour. As a testament to the fairness and impartiality of Prof, I got the job, even though I had no 'connection' prior to that moment.

Prof became a father to me and made sure I settled down well in Ibadan. He made sure I got an accommodation and consistently asked after my welfare. I still recall him in his trademark baggy trousers and oversized shirt. When I got married, I took my wife to go and see him in his house. He and his wife welcomed us and made us feel so special and important - Prof was so kind like that. To make the visit more interesting, he gave me a tour of his expansive compound, and introduced me to one of his bodyguards at that time - a duck! Prof was also humorous like that!

I remember a time I had a medical problem, and I had visited a couple of pharmacies and even UCH, and I was getting restless as the issue persisted. I shared my concern with Prof and he have a medicine (single dose) that resolved the issue immediately. He was so brilliant like that!

Prof, wherever you are, I pray that my God - the God of Abraham Issac and Jacob - will keep you, and preserve your legacy and the beautiful family you left behind. God bless you.

As you used to say, ka sa ma se dada.
Daramola Oluwaseun (Nela-H Alive)

Tribute to Prof Femi Soyinka
From Yetunde Makanjuola

Rest on Prof. Femi Soyinka. You came, you saw and you lived well. You gave me my first job. I am proud to be a product of your coaching and mentoring which shaped my career for the best. You were indeed a father and leader to all your staff. Your contribution to humanity will never be forgotten. You will be greatly missed.
Adieu Prof.

Yetunde Makanjuola (Nela-H Alive)

Tribute to Prof Femi Soyinka
From Ayodeji Akintola - SA-NELAH

You are a boss and a friend, gentle and humble leader per excellence. I worked in NELAH with confidence and courage like father and son relationship. Your love, care and passion for excellence were outstanding. You're forever respected in life and in death. Rest in peace dear Professor Femi Soyinka.

Ayodeji Akintola (Nela-H Alive)

Tribute to Prof Femi Soyinka
From Olojo Atinuke

How happy I am to have known Prof. He was a Father, always caring and encouraging. Time spent at NELA was great - he gave me love and opportunities, taught and supported me to be the best I could. He treated me just like his own daughter, always making sure that I was learning and happy. Prof even travelled miles to celebrate with me, which for me was the height of his humility and simplicity. He was a rare leader and we will always remember him.

Olojo Atinuke (Nela-H Alive)

Tribute to Prof Femi Soyinka
From Funke Koleowo.

The first time I met Prof was in 1992 when I had my first daughter, having gotten wedded a year earlier. A friend came to pick me from the hospital and we needed to branch at the Faculty of Science, where I met Prof, and He was the first person to give my daughter a gift.

As fate would have it, I met him again 16 years later when I was employed on the NECAIN, a project implemented by NELA and I worked for 8 years with 'my Prof' as I fondly called him.

Prof was a father, a friend and someone you could confide in. Prof was good-humoured, cheery and good-natured. He was more of a father than a boss, very compassionate, approachable and supportive. No NELAH staff can say Prof has never supported him or her even Financially!

Prof would never sack you for whatever reason - he believed in managing and ensuring change.

Prof' would be greatly missed especially not hearing him call me "Peper..." I will say 'My Prof' and he will respond with 'Pepere...'

The last time I came home to check on you. you couldn't even see me, not to talk of your heartwarming welcome.
Well I can only wish your sweet soul rest and God's preservation of your family and all you left behind especially your wife.

Adieu! My Prof
Funke Koleowo (Nela-H Alive)

Tribute to Prof Femi Soyinka.
From Titus Oyedokun.

Our dear late Professor Femi Soyinka was more than a boss to some of us at the Dean's Office, Faculty of Health Sciences, OAU and at NELA. He related with us as a father who is concerned about the welfare of his children.
He was an exemplary leader indeed who placed great premium on integrity. He hated and shunned greed and covetousness. He was caring, accommodating, compassionate, appreciative, generous, focused, and simple but firm.

All these qualities played out at various times in the leadership position he occupied, especially at the Faculty of Health Sciences OAU, OAUTHC and NELA.

Prof was a practical example of the parable of a good Samaritan (Lk 10. 33-37). My father and two of my siblings were involved in a motor accident along Ife-Ibadan road. On his way to Ibadan that day, he drove into the accident. There were sympathizers who did nothing to assist. Prof rescued them, put them in his blue Audi car, took them to OAU Teaching Hospital at Ile-Ife and ensured they were treated and stabilized before he left for Ibadan. They survived the accident. At a personal level, Prof was an angel God sent my way till my settlement in Ibadan.

We will miss him but his good works and impact in people's lives will linger on.
May the fruit of his good works while on earth never elude his children in Jesus name.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.
Titus Oyedokun (Nela-H Alive)

Tribute to Prof. Femi Soyinka
Uncle Femi, it was a sad news to hear you have passed on. Well, the Lord knows best. It is my prayer that you forever rest peace as you have impacted lives when you were here. I wasn't very close to you to say much but one thing I know is you loved your wife (Sis. Kofo) my cousin so much and you demonstrated at every and any opportunity. My closest contact with you, was during Ayodeji's wedding ceremony at Kaduna in 2012. You were simply wonderful throughout the programme. I saw in you a loving and caring husband and father. And that is the memory I carry of you. May God grant those you left behind the grace and fortitude to bear your departure to glory. Rest in peace in Jesus name. Amen.
Rev. Lanre Wole Osho

The staff and students of the College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife received with a deep sense of loss the news of the transition of Professor Olufemi O. Soyinka M.D. (Heid.), M.P.H. (Jeru), Sp. Derm & Ven. (W. Germ.) Professor Soyinka died at his home in Ibadan on Tuesday June 14, 2022. He was aged 85.

Professor Soyinka was a foundation staff of the then Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ife. He rose through the ranks to become a Professor of Medicine on October 1, 1980. He served at various times as Head, Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Dean Faculty of Health Sciences and Chief Medical Director, University of Ife Teaching Hospital. It would be recalled that he was instrumental to the reduction of the duration of training for the medical and dental programmes from 7 to 6 years in 1982.
Professor Soyinka was an astute clinician, and versatile researcher who was highly regarded by his students and mentees. He retired in September 2001 after 30 years of meritorious service.

Professor Soyinka will be fondly remembered for pioneering several researches in the field of HIV/AIDS and various tropical skin diseases. The Department of Dermatology & Venereology which he established at the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife remains the only one of such till date.

He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren including Dr Atinuke Ajani, a Consultant Physician and lecturer in the Department of Dermatology & Venereology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

Professor Babatope Kolawole
Provost, College of Health Sciences
Obafemi Awolowo University
Ile-Ife, Nigeria

Words won't be enough to really express the totality of your person. You were a boss, father, teacher and motivator. You believed in my abilities even when I was doubtful. How can I ever forget the opportunities you gave me to grow. With you, it was a mix of work and fun, though work was 95%. Excellence was your watchword. You were always on the side of truth. Your life was a blessing and your memory a treasure. Adieu Prof Prof. Folakenke like you used to call me.

What can I say about my boss and "friend-in-law" but thank God for a life lived to the fullest in the service of humanity.

Professor Femi Soyinka was my boss for 2 years plus when I supported him administratively to run ICASA2005 in Abuja. That project relocated me to Abuja where I have been ever since.

He was happy-go-lucky, humorous, a gentleman to the core and respectful to all. Even though he was much older than me, he never called me by my first name. I was always Mrs O  to him as many in the office called me. He would use the respectful  Yoruba 'ẹ' rather than 'o' to address me and sometimes threw in "Yes, ma". I always found it difficult to determine whether he was serious or was just being his usual mischievous self. He was humility personified!

I learnt a lot of lessons from him in that short period which drew me closer to him. He reinforced the values I had first learnt from my father - simplicity and contentment. Amid the complexity of Abuja life pre-and-post-ICASA2005, through his leadership, we kept strictly within the enviable limits of propriety and integrity.

On a personal level, whenever I had worries then about my son, as a widow bringing up a young son, he was my sounding board and he always willingly lent me a listening ear.

To Kofo, my friend, family physician and cheerleader of many years, I commiserate with you. I am also happy and grateful to God for you because you had a beautiful life with Prof. And to Ayodele, Atinuke and Ayodeji, you have a good legacy in your father and he is worthy of your celebrating him even as you mourn his passing. To the entire Soyinka clan, may the good Lord comfort you all.

May his gallant soul find eternal rest.

Adenike Adeyanju-Osadolor

Tribute to Prof. Femi Soyinka

The news of daddy Femi Soyinka’s transition leaves me sad and short of words as it did to many people. But l thank God for his life and the legacy of love and respect he left for his children and all of us. He is quite humorous, and liked that about him. I commiserate with the family and l hope the good memories they have of him will comfort the family in the days ahead.
Good night daddy Soyinka.

Taiwo Bamidele.

I knew prof from a distance but I have heard a lot about him. His greatness is unparalleled. I keep wondering how he was able to combine a highly demanding career with family life.
You lived a fun-filled and a sacrificial life that will make your memories hang on for a long time. I pray that the Almighty God grant the family and loved ones you left behind the fortitude to bear the reality of your absence 

Tribute to my grandteacher.

Though i was not previledged to be tough by Prof. Soyinka, but had the privilege of been trained by his students- Prof Onayemi , Prof. Olasode, as well as been guided by his daughter-Dr. Atenuke Ajani.
He will surely be remembered for laying solid foundation in the subspecialty of dermatology in Nigeria.
May his gentle saul rest in peace.

My tribute to my dear Grandfather, revered Femi Soyinka.

Though it was only few times, that I met you, out of these few, many memories remain. Many stories I was told about your work, your family and your manner of life. I never asked you personally but I’m convinced that you had a great love and affection for your country, its culture and people. The same of course is true of your family and even over the distance you showed a deep interest in the life of your grandchildren of whom I am the eldest. You gave me credit for a prospective profession as career diplomat. And even though I chose a different professional career, I thank you subsequently for taking part of my life. With hindsight I can express my regret, that I had not the opportunity to know you better. I wish you would have visited us more frequently and also I regret that I have never been in Nigeria to visit you.

Now follows a time when tears are shed and hearts are mournful in those who remain. I wish them strength and the knowledge that there is One in whom is salvation and eternal rest: the lord Jesus Christ.

With due deference and honor,

your grandson Lion Ayodele von Schumann

Sir, you taught me about selflessness in service to humanity as well as humility. I will always remember your contributions to the control of HIV/ AIDS especially destigmatization and improving the plight of PLWHA. May God grant you the benefits of having a peaceful eternity.
Thank you sir.

We lost a humble man. I always let it sink down in me that Prof Femi Soyinka is 'Humility Personified'. Back in my student days as a young undergraduate student nurse, I had a particular skin problem and someone told me I can easily connect with Pro Soyinka for help. On a particular day I just knocked at his office door and he beckoned me to come. I introduced myself and gave my complaints. Immediately, he just took his concave lense and examined the skin and proffer solution. I was amazed at his disposition and response to me as a young student that he never knew from Adam. It's a moment I always remember about Prof Soyinka. Sleep on in the bosom of your Lord Prof. My prayer is that the Lord will give his loved ones the strenght to bear the loss

When Fathers go the way of all mankind. Goodbye renowned researcher and public health pacesetter Professor Femi Soyinka. You gave me my first job and sharpen my research and scientific writing skills beyond the demands of the job. Your contributions to the body of knowledge and legacy live on and would be a reference point for generations unborn.
I recall when I had ruptured appendix surgery, you were there not as an employer but as a father and ensure everything was done well.
Thank you for giving your best to humanity, am sure you died empty having imparted your generation and generations to come with your all. Rest in peace gentleman per excellent. Dr Ekele David 

No space can be adequate for my tribute and the memories of all you did that have become enduring legacies in the characters of so many of us that worked with you closely. You were larger than life to many that you gave support to at critical times of their lives. You were many things to many people, a teacher, a mentor, an enduring researcher, administrator, voice for the voiceless, advocate for human rights, good governance and more. You were compassionate, tolerant and loyal to family values. You left but your legacies leave and will yet blossom for future generations to continue to benefit. Adieu Prof, rest in a well deserved peace.

Death the ultimate end of the mortal man. Professor Femi Soyinka, my teacher, my mentor, my role model, my touchlight to the field of DERMATOLOGY! A kind hearted teacher, mentor and leader per EXCELLENCE. You came, you saw, you conquered. Adieu! Adieu!! Adieu!!! Till RESURECTION MORNING.

May Your Beautiful Soul Rest in Perfect Peace Amen. You are a wonderful teacher and a great mentor. RIP.

We express our sincere condolences on the death of Prof.Dr. med. Femi Soyinka, who since has been our friend for 52 years.
We were very happy when he visited Germany.
He had a very happy and positive attitude.
In addition he never ceased to amaze us with his brilliant mind.
I first met Femi in Giessen in 1971 as a dermatologist. His friendly manner lead to a deep friendship developing and lasting to this day.
We are very sad about the loss of our friend and wish the whole family Soyinka a lot of strength to get through the difficult time. We will never forget Femi and will always remember him fondly.
Ellen and family

With you I had so many “first” adventures very few can boast of.......

The first time I went fishing ; and I learnt fishes could hear us speak.
My first hunting expenditure ; The “Aparos” we never caught”.
The first time I fired a rifle...., My first ride on a tractor....
My first real life magic show, and you were the performer....
My first rural farm-life experience; roasted “Agbado” in the skin... hmmm! how dermatological.

My first encounter with scientific nomenclature “ Musca domestica”. Subsequent firsts with scalpels, sutures and fast freeze... 
The first time I tasted wine..., My first attempt to drive
My first advice about dating ; the only one I ever really got.....
Father you were busy, but you always made time.

And now, a new set of firsts...…

For the first time in my life; I have lost some thing irreplaceable. Yes I have had many losses big and small, but none compare with this.

For the first time in my life, I met intimately with grief and I’m caught in her suffocating grip. I’ve tried to ease her hold with memories of you, but with each sweet memory, comes a reminder that there will be no more new memories .
So Yes, though I have known pain, its never been this intricate.

For the first time in my life I can’t put thoughts to words, You have left me with my first mix of conflicting emotions; emptiness, sadness and joy. In my agony I am grateful. Thankful for the life you have given me and sorrowful yours has been taken.
For the first time I see death for what he is. A thief, bully and coward hiding behind so many masks. The spirit that wrestles with mortals has robbed me of my rock.

For the first time, we can’t wake you from your sleep, for the first time you have travelled with no intention to return.

For the first time, my last Adieu Papa,
For the first time; you’ll be forever missed.

Tin-Tin.

What do I write or where do I start. I mourn but not with sorrow. I remember lots and lots and loads of great memories and I smile. I recall your escapades in your youthful days and I still think how God was kind and merciful. I recall your kindness and simplicity of life and I want to think some rubbed on me. And yes, the activism definitely did. You spoke up always ( I just remembered now how you say always) for the vulnerable. I remember how you will not take an honorarium which was legitimately yours (I tried to emulate this and never succeeded). I recall how you always had a $100 in the secret pouch of your belt just so you are prepared for a sudden flight ( I copied that successfully ). I recall you are one of two persons I ever met who wanted to win a Nobel prize. The second was Prof Taiwo Ige Grillo. I recall your story of the concoction you made for a client that made his bald hair grow and how you never were able to reformulate the concoction. I remember how you loved laughing and the look on your face when you are up to mischief. I remember your troubling Tommy. I remember how Tinu was your special and how family was sacred to you. I remember you will sleep on the same bed with your driver when you travel. I ask you about the full meaning of your name Femi and you said it was just Femi. Sooo many beautiful memories. The laughter, the care, the concern about my safety and wellness. I emulated your facilitation skills. How excellence in organisation was not to be compromised. You planned well ahead and you planned well. I remember that with you is was okay to be human. I remember that you also remember. You are gone Femi but your light is not out. The memories you left are beautiful. Meeting you was a life changer. I am the better for it. The memories of you are beautiful. My memories of you keeps you in my present. You can't be past to me. Oh the many, many, many laughters from the depth of my soul at the time in my life when troubles blew. Visiting NELA and gisting with me kept pains and sorrow at bay. You are special Femi. I mourn but not with sorrow.

Obwohl die Geschichte des Lebens es leider nicht vorsah, dass ich meine Kindheit gemeinsam mit meinem Vater verbringen konnte, war mir das Wichtigste immer bewusst.
Lieber Dad, ich wusste mich geliebt und anerkannt von Dir. Du hast den Kontakt geknüpft, nicht nur zu mir und meinem Leben, sondern Du hast auch an dem Leben Deiner Enkel hier in Deutschland immer wieder Anteil genommen.
Ich weiß, dass es Dir sehr wichtig war, dass wir wissen wo unsere Wurzeln liegen.
Für all dies bin ich Dir dankbar und stolz Deine älteste Tochter zu sein. Ich habe Dich als klug und auch gütig wahrgenommen und Dich trotz all Deiner großen Lebensleistungen als bescheidenen Menschen erlebt.
Ich weiß, Du hattest Humor und warst stolz auf Deine Kinder.
Es war schön mit Dir zu lachen, ich wusste, Du versuchst als Ratgeber an meiner Seite zu stehen, obwohl Du so weit entfernt warst.
Meine Erinnerungen an Dich hüte ich wie einen Schatz, auch Deine Briefe und die Mails die ich von Dir habe.
Ich habe Dich immer vermisst, bedaure so manche Entscheidung und möchte Dir sagen, dass ich Dich vermisse und werde dies immer tun, ich denke mit tiefer Trauer und Liebe an Dich.
Du weißt ich bin gläubig und glaube an den einzigen Frieden durch IHN.
Diesen wünschen wir Dir.
In Liebe
Deine älteste Tochter Eniolà mit Ehemann Stefan und ihre Kinder Lion-Ayodélé, Josephine-Eniolà, Abeni und die Enkelkindern

Even though the story of life did not allow for me to spend my childhood together with my father, I was always aware of the most important thing.
Dear Dad, I felt loved and acknowledged by you. You established a connection, not just regarding my life but also regarding those of your grandchildren here in Germany, in which you always took part in.
I know that it was of high importance for you that we are aware of where our roots lie.
For all this I am thankful and I am proud to call myself your eldest daughter. I perceived you as intelligent, kind, and modest despite all your great accomplishments.
I know that you had humor and that you were proud of your children.
It was nice laughing with you and I know that you always tried to stand by my side as an advisor, despite the fact that you lived so far away.
I keep my memories that I had with you like a treasure, just like your letters and the Mails that you sent me.
I always missed you, I keep missing you now and I always will. I'd like to tell you that I keep you in my thoughts with deep sadness and love.
You know I'm a believer, I believe in deep peace through HIM. That's what we wish for you.
In deep love, your eldest daughter Eniolà her husband and her kids Lion-Ayodélé, Josephine-Eniolà, Abeni and the grandkids.

My mentor, father, boss, adviser, and a great role model. He gave all the support I needed to have higher degrees in Nursing and mentored me to be assertive and to stand for truth all the time. The last time I was with you was a memorable one. I thank God for your life. It was a fulfilled one. Good night daddy . Your memory is blessed. Peruks will continue to remember you for all that you have done.

Our dear professor, you came, saw and conquered. May your soul rest in peace.

You were so good to everyone, you were loving and kind, you were jovial and fun to be with. May your fatherly beautiful soul find eternal rest and God keep all you left behind. Fare thee well Daddy.

This is a celebration of life well spent serving humanity and touching several lives along the way. The first time I met Prof was in 1989 in FEGO and his personality has remained embedded in my memory. Years later in OAU, Ile-Ife, I reluctantly followed Ayo to his office to see him concerning a skin irritation I had in an uncomfortable part of my body. I left his office that day feeling so relieved and happy because he was able to professionally allay my fears with a simple prescription that worked like magic thereafter.

Adieu Prof .... you will surely be missed by everyone who knew you.

May your gentle soul RIP 

Uncle, You were a free spirited ever loving soul that traversed earth with love for every soul that crossed your path. Always ready to tickle the mind and test ones understanding of issues and ever full of laughter. I'll always remember and cherish you. May your soul rest peacefully.

Prof as I fondly call him was a very kind, friendly, loving and caring Uncle. I'll forever miss you Prof. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

I’m just short of words at your demise Prof. Words can’t define how amiable you were even with younger generationss. Thanks so much for being so accommodating having me share a bottle of beer with you. after a very delicious meal several times. May you sleep easy in the bosom of the Almighty. Amen.

Prof was an enigma! My friend's Dad and father to all.
I remember sometimes in 1995, I had a skin irritation, as an undergraduate in the prestigious OAU, the best man to see for consultation of that nature had to be Prof Femi Soyinka. He attended to me warmly after exchanging pleasantries with my Mum who is close to Ayo's Mum, Dr (Mrs) Kofo Soyinka. I left Prof's office happy after he gave the right medication to the problem.
Prof Femi Soyinka's painful demise indeed is a huge loss to the medical profession, albeit to the entire nation.
To our loving Mother, Dr (Mrs) Kofo Soyinka, Ayodele, his siblings and the entire Soyinka family, I express my heart-felt condolences over this painful loss.

I pray God grant Prof Femi Soyinka eternal rest! Amen!
......Kehinde Makanjuola

Prof. Femi Shoyinka is a blessing to humanity. The whole of humanity will miss his wealth of knowledge and expertise in the health industry. May the
good Lord receive his gentle soul into His bosom.

The only Professor that call me Uncle B is gone! While I feel bad that you're gone, I thank God for the good & fruitful life you lived!
Being married to my senior sister gave me the opportunity to live in your BQ at the staff quarters in Road 7 of the then University of Ife now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife which made me to know the character you were made of! This was between 1977 to 1982 when I was an undergraduate in the University.
It was there I saw that one can live a good & comfortable life without breaking the vault of a bank! It's just for each individual to design & fashion the lifestyle he or she wants for oneself & live it! It's that simple.
His house in the University then was quite dainty with lovely furnishings! The meals were ever so sumptuous with exquisite wines to compliment the food! Prof was a connoisseur of wine to the core & he also enjoyed his beers too!
Moving to his personal house in Kikumoda village, Ibadan in the 1980s was icing on the cake in his lifestyle with his family!
That's where I copied the lifestyle I've been living since then till today!
Prof indeed lived a good, simple, comfortable & quiet life with his wonderful family till death & I'm glad to have learnt from him as my mentor in designing & fashioning my own life journey in line with his!
While I commiserate with my sister & the children on the loss of their Patriarch, I believe we should thank God for the good & long life he lived! He should therefore be celebrated!
Adieu my Prof & may your gentle soul rest in peace!

We celebrate you Prof for a life well spent of excellent works evident in your personal contributions in all spheres of life to the good of mankind. Your good memories are forever and will console all even as we miss you. Adieu Prof Femi Soyinka!

May the soul of Daddy rest in perfect peace. You really loved a fulfilled life which is evident in my brother and friend Ayodele Soyinka.
 
 May the good Lord strengthen and comfort the family left behind. Amen 

Thanks you Prof. for all your wonderful contributions to healthcare and mankind as a whole, we will forever be grateful....

The Lord giveth and the Lord taketh.....
May the good Lord give your family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss and may your gentle soul through the mercy of God rest in perfect peace, Prof Femi Soyinka.....Amen