The second edition of the Nimi Dimkpa Briggs Legacy Lecture Series took place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the Auditorium, CBN Centre for Excellence, University of Port Harcourt, organized by the Nimi Briggs Chair of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. The event honored the life and contributions of Emeritus Professor Nimi Dimkpa Briggs, a distinguished academic, physician, and administrator whose impact continues to shape the fields of medicine and education.
Professor Nimi Briggs was a towering figure in the medical and academic communities. As the pioneer Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, he played a crucial role in establishing and advancing the department, setting a foundation for excellence in maternal healthcare and medical training. His influence extended beyond the hospital, as he later served as the fifth Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, where he championed reforms and policies that elevated the institution’s academic standing.
The event commenced with an address by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor Owunari Georgewill Abraham, who spoke on the enduring nature of Professor Briggs’ legacy. Even two years after his passing, his contributions continue to inspire and shape the lives of many.
He emphasized that while longevity often refers to the length of one’s days, true longevity is measured by the weight and impact of those days. Quoting Marcus Aurelius, he remarked, “It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.” He challenged attendees to reflect on whether longevity should be pursued merely in years or in the form of an enduring legacy that transcends time.
Following this, the Chair Occupant of the Nimi Briggs Chair of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mrs. Ngozi Orazulike, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on the depth of Professor Briggs’ influence. She described him as a man whose contributions spanned multiple spheresโmedicine, academia, mentorship, leadership, and philanthropy.
The keynote lecture, delivered by Dr. Ibrahim Wada, explored the theme of longevity, offering insights into both the science and philosophy of living a long and impactful life. He highlighted the fundamental principles of longevity, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet, quality sleep, regular medical check-ups, physical fitness, and the avoidance of harmful habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
He underscored the role of preventive healthcare in ensuring not just a longer life but a healthier one. Dr. Wada also spoke extensively on the role of medical advancements in promoting longevity. He discussed how innovations in genetic editing and stem cell therapy have revolutionized modern medicine, offering solutions to conditions that were once deemed untreatable.
The ability to manipulate genetic structures and regenerate damaged tissues has opened new frontiers in medicine, bringing humanity closer to a future where lifespan can be extended while maintaining quality of life. The lecture served as a reminder that longevity is not just about extending years but about ensuring that those years are meaningful and impactful.
Professor Nimi Briggs embodied this philosophy throughout his life. His contributions to medicine, education, and leadership continue to inspire new generations, proving that a person’s true longevity is measured not in years but in the legacy they leave behind.
As the University of Port Harcourt and the Nimi Briggs Chair of Obstetrics and Gynaecology continue to host this annual lecture, it stands as a testament to the enduring influence of a man who dedicated his life to advancing healthcare, education, and human development. His name will not be forgotten, as the values he championed continue to shape the lives of those who follow in his footsteps.
