Nigerian-Born Bolu Ogunyemi Elected First Black President of Canadian Medical Association in 158-Year History

Dr. Bolu Ogunyemi, a Nigerian-born clinical associate professor of medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland, has made history as the first Black president-elect of the Canadian Medical Association (CMA). Ogunyemi, a dermatologist based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, secured the position after defeating Susan MacDonald in a competitive election.

In his new role, Ogunyemi will represent the CMA across various platforms, including engagements with the media, provincial and territorial medical associations, the government, and other partner organizations throughout Canada. Pending formal approval by the CMA’s general council in May 2025, Ogunyemi will serve a one-year term as president of the association.

Ogunyemi brings a wealth of experience to the position, having served as the inaugural assistant dean of social accountability at Memorial University from 2020 to 2023. He is also a board member of the Labrador Medical Association and completed a fellowship in health services improvement in 2024 at the University of Alberta’s School of Public Health.

After his election, Ogunyemi expressed his commitment to addressing key challenges in Canada’s healthcare system. “My track record in medical leadership, spanning 15 years, has provided me with expertise on pressing issues facing our healthcare system today,” he stated. “As CMA president-elect, I will advocate for a unified and respected profession, a robust healthcare system, and healthier communities.”