Nathaniel Thomas King, born on July 14, 1847, in Hastings, Sierra Leone, is recognized as Nigeria’s first African medical doctor. He was born into a Yoruba family; his father, Reverend Thomas King, was a prominent figure in the Church Missionary Society and played a significant role in translating the Bible into Yoruba.
In 1850, the family relocated to Abeokuta, Nigeria, where Nathaniel’s early exposure to both his cultural roots and formal education began.
King’s academic journey commenced at a pre-medical training program established by Dr. A. A. Harrison at the Church Missionary Society in Abeokuta in 1861. He was one of four students selected for this pioneering initiative aimed at training young Africans in medicine.
Following Dr. Harrison’s untimely death in 1864, King continued his education at Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone and later at King’s College London, where he earned his Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) and medical degrees from the University of Edinburgh and University of Aberdeen by 1876.
Upon returning to Nigeria in 1878, King began practicing medicine in Lagos, where he quickly gained recognition for his contributions to public health and environmental sanitation. His work not only improved healthcare standards but also opened doors for future generations of Nigerian doctors.
King served as a medical officer for the Church Missionary Society and was involved in various educational initiatives, including acting as an examiner for local schools.
Despite facing racial discrimination and challenges inherent to being one of the few African medical professionals of his time, King’s dedication to his patients and community earned him respect across ethnic and social boundaries.
He became a consulting physician for several European firms operating in Lagos, demonstrating his capability and professionalism.
Tragically, Nathaniel King’s promising career was cut short when he died on June 12, 1884, at the age of 37. His legacy as a pioneer of modern medicine in Nigeria endures; he not only paved the way for future African doctors but also exemplified the potential of Africans to excel in fields traditionally dominated by Europeans.
His life story remains an inspiration for many aspiring medical professionals across the continent.