Events

The Surgical Interest Group Lagos Conference 2025 (SURGIL’CON 25) was held on June 25, 2025, at the College of Medicine, University of Lagos. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the conference expanded significantly, attracting over 500 in-person participants and more than 400 virtual attendees from over ten medical schools across Nigeria. It also gained notable media attention, reflecting its growing impact within the medical community. The conference was themed “The Wholesome Surgeon,” a concept designed to highlight the importance of developing well-rounded surgical professionals. Rather than focusing solely on technical competence, the theme emphasized intellectual growth, emotional intelligence, ethical practice, research involvement, and global awareness. It underscored the idea that surgeons play a vital role not only in treating disease but also in bridging the gap between suffering and healing while contributing to healthcare advancement. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Julius Kunle Oni, who inspired participants to pursue excellence and innovation in surgical practice. He stressed the importance of purpose-driven careers and the need for medical professionals to give back to society and improve healthcare systems, particularly in Nigeria. His address set the tone for the conference, encouraging attendees to adopt a holistic approach to their professional development. A major highlight of the event was the panel discussion, which brought together experienced surgeons and medical leaders. The discussion explored critical topics such as career progression, challenges in surgical practice within Nigeria, work-life balance, and leadership in medicine. Panelists shared personal experiences and practical advice, providing students with valuable insights into the realities of pursuing a surgical career. The conference also featured interactive breakout sessions, where participants engaged directly with consultants across four key areas: academia, research, global surgery, and private practice. These sessions allowed for personalized mentorship and deeper exploration of specific career paths, helping students better understand the opportunities and demands within each field. In addition, the conference showcased abstract presentations on contemporary issues in surgery, including the role of artificial intelligence and telemedicine, strategies for improving surgical care in low- and middle-income countries, and treatment approaches for glioblastoma. This segment promoted academic engagement and critical thinking, culminating in the presentation of an award for the best abstract. Overall, SURGIL’CON 25 was a resounding success. It effectively inspired, educated, and equipped the next generation of surgeons by combining knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and professional development. The conference reinforced the importance of producing surgeons who are not only technically skilled but also compassionate, innovative, and socially responsible, while setting a strong foundation for future editions.

The event featured a robust agenda that included keynote speeches, panel discussions, and abstract/poster presentations, all focused on the intricacies and challenges of pursuing a career in surgery. By facilitating direct interaction between students and established surgeons, the conference offered invaluable insights into the realities of surgical practice, the demands of the profession, and the opportunities for growth and development within the field. The SURGIL Conference 2025 represented a bold step forward in the journey of nurturing the next generation of surgeons, reinforcing the commitment of SURGIL to empower medical students and provide them with the tools, knowledge, and inspiration needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of surgery.