Tributes have continued to pour in for the late Publisher of Pharmanews, Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, following the announcement of his passing on Monday at the age of 85.
Sir Atueyi, who died on 15 July in a Canadian hospital after a brief illness, served the pharmacy profession in various capacities before establishing Pharmanews in 1979 — a platform he used to promote pharmaceutical and healthcare journalism.
He was a different personality to different groups at different times, both within the healthcare space and beyond.
The demise of the late Coordinator of Pharmacy Elders has prompted an outpouring of tributes — from organised pharmacy groups to prominent individuals and professional colleagues.
NAPharm mourns Atueyi, Describes him as an exemplary patriarch of ethical Journalism
Among the first tributes was that of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAPharm), which highlighted the visionary efforts of its founding Vice-President in championing a dedicated medium for the progress of pharmacy, along with his many contributions to nation-building.
In a tribute signed by the NAPharm President, Prof. Lere Baale, the late Atueyi was described as an exemplary patriarch of ethical journalism, a trailblazing pharmacist, a steadfast man of faith, and a beacon of professional integrity. His departure, Prof. Baale said, marks the close of an era — but the beginning of a legacy that will echo through generations.
“As the Founder and Publisher of Pharmanews — Nigeria’s leading health journal established in 1979 — Sir Atueyi redefined health communication in West Africa. At a time when pharmacy practice lacked visibility and professional media engagement, he boldly pioneered a platform that illuminated the profession, connected stakeholders, and chronicled its growth with unwavering consistency and excellence.
“For over four decades, Pharmanews became more than a publication; it became a movement — a mirror reflecting the aspirations, challenges, and triumphs of pharmacists, healthcare workers, and policymakers. At its helm was a man whose pen was dipped in wisdom, whose heart burned with purpose, and whose life exemplified the synergy of professionalism and divine calling.”
More than a publisher — A pillar of transformation
The CEO of Business School Netherlands International also highlighted the wider impact of Pharm. Atueyi, noting that he was not merely a journalist or editor, but a reformer, mentor, and servant-leader whose influence transcended titles.
A Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN), the Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy (FNAPharm), and the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (FPCPharm), Prof. Baale said Atueyi carried these honours with grace and used them as platforms to uplift others.
“Through the written word, public speaking, and mentorship, he instilled in countless pharmacists the values of ethical practice, excellence, and lifelong learning. He was also a prolific author, writing several books that bridged professional knowledge with spiritual insight — leaving behind a library of wisdom for generations yet unborn.”
A champion of honour and a celebrator of elders
“Sir Atueyi introduced and institutionalised the culture of celebrating the elders and pioneers of the pharmacy profession. Through heartfelt tributes, interviews, and articles, he ensured that the stories of trailblazers were documented, honoured, and passed on with dignity. In doing so, he not only preserved history — he ignited aspiration.
“His commitment to the growth of young professionals was unmatched. As a devoted patron of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (PANS), he inspired generations of student pharmacists to pursue excellence with humility, faith, and vision.
“Sir Atueyi has gone home to rest, but he has left behind footprints — not just in print, but on hearts. His legacy is engraved in our institutions, our ethics, our standards, and our spirits.”
WAPCP mourns, hails Atueyi’s integrity, vision, and commitment to pharmacy Practice
The West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP), Nigeria Chapter, also sent a heartfelt tribute to a distinguished icon and towering pillar of the pharmacy profession in West Africa.
In a tribute jointly signed by its Chairman and Secretary, Pharm. (Dr) Afusat Adesina and Pharm. (Dr) Ebele Onwuchuluba, Sir Atueyi was described as a symbol of integrity, vision, and unwavering commitment to the growth and recognition of pharmacy practice, not only in Nigeria but across the entire West African region.
“His legacy is deeply etched in the history of the profession, particularly through his founding and editorial leadership of Pharmanews — a platform that, for decades, has advanced pharmacy education, professional development, and ethical standards.
“Through his tireless efforts, Sir Atueyi documented the evolution of pharmacy practice, gave voice to pressing professional issues, celebrated achievements, and spotlighted areas needing reform. As a writer and communicator, he was more than a storyteller; he was a builder of institutions, a mentor to many, and a custodian of professional values.
“A man of deep faith, humility, and purpose, Sir Atueyi embodied the true spirit of leadership through service. His devotion to ethical principles, his passion for mentoring young pharmacists, and his unwavering support for the vision and mission of WAPCP remain shining examples for us all.”
The College reiterated its commitment to advancing pharmaceutical education, research, and practice in his honour.
“Though he may be gone, his voice, values, and vision will continue to echo through the generations of pharmacists he inspired. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
ALPs mourns, says he was a distinguished professional
In the same vein, the Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs), National Chapter, expressed deep sadness over the passing of the late Pharmanews Publisher, describing him as a distinguished professional.
In a tribute signed by the ALPs National Chairman, Pharm. (Mrs) Scholastica Lan, and mailed to Pharmanewsonline, she recalled the association’s last visit to Sir Atueyi at his office, where he gave them a warm welcome.
“ALPs mourns the demise of a great pharmacy icon and Publisher of Pharmanews, Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi. He was a distinguished professional. Indeed, there is a time for everything and a season under heaven. Fare thee well, great one. May God bless your soul and grant you rest in His paradise.”
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