A Nigerian, Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland’s Faculty of Medicine, has been elected as the nominee for the Canadian Medical Association’s (CMA) next president-elect.
Allnaijadiaspora reports that the feat labels Ogunyemi as the first black President in the 158years of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA).
However, the CMA president serves as the organization’s primary spokesperson, representing the association in media engagements, liaising with provincial and territorial medical associations, and working with governments and other stakeholders to advance the CMA’s objectives. Each year, the role rotates among representatives from different provinces or territories.
Dr. Ogunyemi is a practicing dermatologist in St. John’s, Newfoundland, and has operated a visiting specialist clinic in Labrador City since 2018.
At Memorial University, he has held multiple leadership positions, including serving as the inaugural Assistant Dean of Social Accountability (2020–2023).
He has also been a member of the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Association Board of Directors and recently completed a Fellowship in Health Services Improvement at the University of Alberta’s School of Public Health in 2024.
Beyond these roles, Dr. Ogunyemi contributes to the CMA as a member of its Governance Committee.
He has also served on the Canadian Doctors for Medicare Board of Directors and advised the federal government as part of the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Public Health Ethics Consultative Group.
“With 15 years of experience in medical leadership, I bring a deep understanding of the challenges facing our health care system today,”Ogunyemi said.
“As CMA president-elect, I will advocate for a unified and respected profession, a resilient health care system, and healthier communities.”
Dr. Ogunyemi’s nomination awaits General Council approval during the CMA Annual General Meeting in May 2025.
Upon confirmation, he will serve as president-elect until May 2026, when he will assume the role of CMA president for a one-year term.
Eligible CMA members in Newfoundland and Labrador voted in the president-elect election between Nov. 20 and Dec. 4, with Dr. Ogunyemi securing the position over fellow candidate Dr. Susan MacDonald.
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