Folorunso Olowu

A pioneering Nigerian physician who broke gender barriers in medicine and advanced healthcare equity in Africa.

Folorunso Olowu (1920–1999) was a groundbreaking Nigerian medical professional who became the first female radiologist in Africa. Born in Lagos, she defied societal norms by pursuing a career in medicine at a time when women were largely excluded from STEM fields. After graduating from the University of Ibadan in 1947, she specialized in radiology, a discipline dominated by men. Her work revolutionized healthcare access in Nigeria by establishing the first radiology department at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, which trained generations of medical professionals. Olowu also advocated for women’s inclusion in healthcare leadership roles, co-founding the Nigerian Medical Women’s Association in 1958. Her legacy includes improving maternal health outcomes through early disease detection and mentoring over 200 female doctors. Learn more on Wikipedia or African Women in Science.