The foundation of Nigeria shook as the former Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Nkem Akunyili died on Sunday in India at the age of 59. The former minister was also a one time Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC. I received the news of her death with great shock. She was a woman of many parts and her characters was worthy of emulation by our young girls who want to excel in this life.
She was an icon and a precious pearl among women. Prof. Dora Nkem Akunyili could be best described as a political force, and pragmatic leader in the administrative affairs of the country.
During her service years in NAFDAC, she fought gallantly to ensure that the circulation of fake drugs and other dangerous substances are being reduced or eradicate completely. She became a thorn in the flesh of drug barons in the country.
No doubt, Prof. Dora Nkem Akunyili was a patriotic Nigerian and a true nationalist whose heart focused on the progress of the country.
The former NAFDAC boss joined her ancestors in the spiritual realm when her service was highly needed, especially at this time when the nation is searching for a true leadership. Considering the roles she had played in repositioning Nigeria, government should immortalize her. A street could be named after her, or her status should be erected at a strategic place in Abuja. Let me use this medium to commensirate with the members of her family, the people and the government of Anambra State for the loss of this great icon of Nigeria. Let the Almighty God give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
May her gentle soul rest in the bosom of the Lord until the day of resurrection. ###
