A Giant Falls in Nigeria’s Medical Laboratory Profession: Hon. Kunle Jenrade Dies at 76
A Giant Falls in Nigeria’s Medical Laboratory Profession: Hon. Kunle Jenrade Dies at 76
Nigeria has lost a towering figure in both healthcare and public service as Honourable Kunle Jenrade, a respected medical laboratory scientist and former member of the House of Representatives, passed away on Friday, May 1, 2026, at the age of 76 following a brief illness.
The announcement was made in a statement jointly signed by the leadership of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Oyo State Branch. The statement, endorsed by the State Chairman, Mrs. Akinbile Adebola, and the State Publicity Secretary, MLS Fasasi Abdulkabir, described his death as a profound loss to the medical laboratory profession and the nation at large.
Born on July 3, 1950, in Ona-Ara/Egbeda Local Government Area of Oyo State, Jenrade distinguished himself early in life through academic excellence and professional dedication. He obtained both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Medical Laboratory Science from the prestigious University of Ibadan, laying a solid foundation for a career that would span science, governance, and entrepreneurship.
Jenrade’s foray into politics saw him elected to represent the Ona-Ara/Egbeda Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2003 during Nigeria’s 4th National Assembly. During his tenure, he emerged as a strong advocate for healthcare reforms, most notably sponsoring and advancing the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria Act 11 of 2003. This landmark legislation significantly strengthened regulatory frameworks and professional standards within the laboratory science field in Nigeria.
A Fellow and former Governing Board member of the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria, Jenrade remained deeply committed to advancing the profession beyond his legislative years. His influence extended into the private sector, where he served as Chief Executive Officer of Crown Laboratory Nigeria Ltd., earning widespread respect for his dedication to quality healthcare delivery.
Colleagues and associates remember him not only for his professional achievements but also for his personal qualities. The AMLSN described him as a philanthropist, mentor, and elder statesman whose impact resonated across generations of medical laboratory scientists.
His passing, the association noted, leaves a significant void in the healthcare community, particularly in Oyo State and across Nigeria. Tributes have continued to pour in from colleagues, former political associates, and mentees both within the country and in the diaspora.
Honourable Kunle Jenrade is survived by his wife, children, and extended family. He has been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites.
As Nigeria reflects on his life and legacy, Jenrade’s contributions to medical laboratory science and national development remain enduring reminders of a life devoted to service, excellence, and progress.