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Statue of Dora Akunyili: A Monument Honoring Nigeria’s Fearless Reformer

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The image shows a statue of Professor Dora Nkem Akunyili, one of Nigeria’s most respected pharmacists, public health advocates, and reformers. The monument stands in Agulu, Anambra State, her hometown, as a lasting tribute to her unwavering fight against counterfeit drugs and her legacy of integrity in public service.

Professor Dora Akunyili was born on July 14, 1954, in Makurdi, Benue State, but hailed from Agulu in Anambra. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Pharmacology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where she also earned her Ph.D. She began her career in academia, serving as a lecturer and later rising to become a senior lecturer at UNN.

Her national prominence began when she was appointed Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in 2001, a role she held until 2008. During her tenure, Akunyili launched an aggressive and unprecedented campaign against the production and distribution of fake and substandard drugs in Nigeria. Her fearless actions — including raids, public education campaigns, and policy reforms — saved countless lives and restored public confidence in Nigeria’s health sector.

Beyond her work at NAFDAC, she also served as Nigeria’s Minister of Information and Communications from 2008 to 2010, where she promoted the “Rebranding Nigeria” project aimed at improving the nation’s global image. Her courage, honesty, and dedication to national service earned her numerous awards both locally and internationally, including the Integrity Award by Transparency International in 2003.

The statue in Agulu was commissioned by her husband, Dr. Chike Akunyili, as a tribute to her life of sacrifice, leadership, and moral strength. The sculpture, created by Sebastine Ugwuoke, captures her dignity and resilience — qualities that defined her public life.

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Professor Dora Akunyili passed away on June 7, 2014, in India at the age of 59, after battling cancer. Her death was deeply mourned across Nigeria and beyond, as tributes poured in recognizing her as a woman who stood for truth and fought tirelessly for the good of her country.

Today, her statue in Agulu stands not only as a monument to her memory but also as a reminder of what courageous leadership and integrity can achieve in public service.

Sources:

Premium Times Nigeria: “Statue of Dora Akunyili Unveiled in Agulu” (2015)

NAFDAC Official Website: Biography of Professor Dora Akunyili

The Guardian Nigeria: “Remembering Dora Akunyili: A Legacy of Integrity and Reform” (2024)

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Guinness World Record reacts to BBNaija Queen’s bread-inspired outfit at the 12th AMVCA

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Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Queen Mercy Atang, may be heading for a global record conversation after Guinness World Records reacted to her viral bread-inspired outfit worn at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.

In a video shared on her Instagram page on Sunday, Guinness World Records reacted in the comment section saying, “Well, we do have a record for the largest cake dress … hmmm.”

Former Big Brother Naija Housemate, Queen Atang in her bread outfit at the 12th edition of AMVCA in Lagos…Photo Credit: Ig/ QueenMercyAtang

Reacting to the comment, the reality star wrote, “Hello @guinnessworldrecords, I see you in the comment section”

The development has further amplified conversations around her unconventional AMVCA appearance, which has continued to dominate social media and fashion discussions days after the event.

According to Guinness World Records, the current record for the world’s largest wearable cake dress stands at 131.15kg (289lb 13oz).

The record was achieved by Natasha Coline Kim Fah Lee Fokas of SweetyCakes GmbH in Bern, Switzerland, on January 15, 2023.

Former Big Brother Naija Housemate, Queen Atang in her bread outfit at the 12th edition of AMVCA in Lagos…Photo Credit: Ig/ QueenMercyAtang

Queen’s bread-themed costume had earlier sparked widespread reactions online after she appeared on the AMVCA red carpet dressed in an outfit designed to resemble loaves of bread, complete with a matching prop.

Explaining the inspiration behind the look, Queen said the outfit reflected her entrepreneurial journey in the food business.

“AMVCA 2026 ready. I come as an entrepreneur who runs a bread EMPIRE,” she wrote at the time, referencing her bakery brand.

Former Big Brother Naija Housemate, Queen Atang in her bread outfit at the 12th edition of AMVCA in Lagos…Photo Credit: Ig/ QueenMercyAtang

On Monday, the reality star also proposed the introduction of a special entrepreneurs-focused event at the AMVCA.

In an open letter addressed to MultiChoice Group and Africa Magic, she wrote, “Just a thought, since we already have the AMVCA Cultural Day and other special events before the main award night, would it be possible to create a special night dedicated to entrepreneurs in Nigeria to showcase their brands, creativity, and impact?

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“Imagine AMVCA Nigerian Entrepreneurs Night. Massive, classy, and inspiring.”

The bread dress has since attracted international attention, with foreign fashion influencers and media platforms reportedly discussing the concept.

Former Big Brother Naija Housemate, Queen Atang in her bread outfit at the 12th edition of AMVCA in Lagos…Photo Credit: Ig/ QueenMercyAtang

The trend has also inspired several entrepreneurs online, many of whom have used AI-generated designs to recreate brand-themed outfits and AMVCA-inspired fashion concepts.

While some Nigerians criticised the outfit as excessive, others, including PR and branding experts, described it as a strategic marketing move that successfully drew global attention to her business.

PUNCH Online had earlier reported that Queen’s appearance at the AMVCA generated mixed reactions, with videos from the red carpet showing her adjusting the elaborate outfit while interacting with guests and posing for photographs.

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Olubadan seeks integration of traditional medicine with modern healthcare

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The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja on Wednesday advocated the integration of traditional medicine with orthodox healthcare to improve healthcare delivery and preserve indigenous medical knowledge.

The monarch made the call while receiving executive members of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Oyo State branch, at the Olubadan Palace.

According to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Gbenga Ayoade, the Olubadan said traditional medicine remained effective, accessible and affordable for many Nigerians.

“I believe in the efficacy of traditional medicine, its accessibility and affordability. So, let me use this period to advocate for the integration of traditional medicine with modern medicine for the enhancement of virile healthcare delivery before the exit of the traditional medical practitioners,” the monarch said.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Oyo State branch of the PSN, Segun Ajanaku, said the delegation visited the palace to congratulate the monarch on his ascension to the throne and to appreciate him for achievements recorded within a short period of his reign.

Ajanaku also informed the monarch about the completion of a pharmacists’ story building in Ibadan, which he described as the first of its kind in Nigeria.

“We respectfully invite Your Imperial Majesty to the inauguration of the building on May 21, 2026,” he said.

He further sought the monarch’s approval for the association to organise its annual medical outreach at the palace on September 25, 2026.

Dignitaries present at the event included the Oba Kolawole Adegbola, Oba Mobolaji Adewoyin, and the Muibi Ademola, among other traditional title holders.

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HELP SAVE A LIFE — SUPPORT FOR RASAQ SHERIFAT FOLASHADE

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Rasaq Sherifat Folashade has been battling Multiple Sclerosis, paralysis, and stroke complications for over 8 years. The prolonged health challenges have taken a severe emotional, physical, and financial toll on her and her loved ones.

Today, she urgently needs financial support for medical care, treatment, medications, rehabilitation, and daily survival.

In her words:
“Please help me. I don’t want to lose hope or give up on life.”

We kindly appeal to compassionate individuals, organizations, friends, and the general public to come to her aid with any amount possible. No contribution is too small, and every support can make a meaningful difference.

DONATION DETAILS:
Bank: GTBank
Account Number: 0034233857
Account Name: Rasaq Sherifat Folashade

Please share this message widely to help save a life.

May God bless and reward everyone who supports this cause.

 

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