…Emotions run high as pharmacists celebrate life and legacy of a departed icon
The atmosphere at the ongoing 44th Annual National Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), holding at the International Convention Centre, Awka, was momentarily frozen in solemnity as pharmacists nationwide paid their last respects to the late Pharm. Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, publisher of Pharmanews, who died on 15 July 2025 at the age of 85.
In a poignant moment during the IFEADIGO 2025 gathering, the entire hall rose to observe a one-minute silence in memory of a man regarded as one of the most influential figures in the annals of Nigerian pharmacy and health communication.
Leading the tribute was the ACPN National Chairman, Pharm. Ambrose Ezeh, alongside President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Tanko Ayuba, national leaders of various PSN technical arms, elder statesmen, Fellows of the Society, and hundreds of attendees, including members of the ACPN National Executive Council.
Prof. Cyril Usifoh, immediate past president of PSN, described Atueyi as a man who lived a fulfilled and sacrificial life for humanity. He recalled with pride that Atueyi was honoured at the previous year’s conference- his last PSN outing and the 50th he attended, adding, “His records are phenomenal and will be difficult to equal.”
Anchoring the tribute session, Pharm. Agboma Esom-Ibe captured the emotion of the gathering: “Atueyi’s death has created a huge vacuum, not only in the pharmacy profession but in humanity at large. Yet, we are comforted by the fact that he lived a life of deep impact and fulfillment.”
She praised him as a pioneer who expanded the scope of pharmacy by excelling in health journalism, inspiring many to realise that fulfillment can also be found beyond traditional practice boundaries.
In her tribute, Pharm. Abiola Paul-Ozieh, former Chairman of ACPN Lagos and a leader in HCPAN, expressed prayers for the continuity of Pharmanews, describing it as one of Atueyi’s enduring legacies. She also prayed for strength and comfort for the family and staff left behind.
Alhaji Olufemi Ismail Adebayo added that Sir Atueyi was a true hero, a man of unwavering inspiration, and a beacon to all who crossed his path.
The emotional moment was one of reflection and gratitude, as participants shared mixed feelings—sadness at his passing, yet joy that he lived a remarkable life of purpose.
The conference, themed “Technology Integration and Personalised Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice,” runs from 22 to 27 July 2025, but for a brief, unforgettable moment, all discussions paused as the community celebrated the life of a man who redefined pharmacy communication in Nigeria
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