In commemoration of its much anticipated 50th anniversary celebration, the Alumni Association of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Services, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has reiterated its commitment towards the pursuit and sustenance of the culture of excellence which remains vital in the quest for a better healthcare sector in Nigeria.
Speaking in a press conference heralding the anniversary on Friday, 25 March, 2021, President of the Alumni Association, Pharm. (Sir) Ike Onyechi, said the UNN Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences Alumni Association has produced great Nigerians who have made immense contributions to the development of the Nigerian pharmaceutical landscape in particular and the healthcare sector in general. He added that one factor which has continually stood members of the alumni out is their adherence to the culture of excellence inculcated into them right from stage of admission into the faculty.
“Amongst the many reasons to celebrate this event, is the rarity of a golden jubilee celebration witnessed chiefly once in a life time since the second comes after 100 years. Furthermore, there is a good reason to celebrate the achievements of eminent graduates of our faculty who are making an impact in their respective fields both locally and internationally. To her credit, our faculty has won many awards and it is one of the best in Africa”, he said.
Corroborating Onyechi’s position, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Professor Ken Oforkansi, said the faculty will continue to break new grounds because of the sound foundation and right ethics with which students are taught. Being a member of the alumni himself and a distinguished international scholar, he believes that the contribution of the UNN Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences to the development of the Nigerian health sector cannot be overemphasised.
Managing Director of SKG Pharma, Dr Okey Akpa, pointed out the significance of a strong pharmacy faculty to the growth and development of the healthcare sector. “There can be no effective production of medicines without the pharmacist. A strong pharmacy faculty will translate to a strong medical and healthcare industry”, he said.
Highlighting the achievements of some members of the Alumni Association, Pharm. IG Anukwu, erstwhile national chairman of NAIP referred to the giant strides recorded by Pharm (Dr) Margaret Obono, during her tenure as the Director of Pharmaceutical Services at the National Orthopedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos.
According to him, her ability to bequeath to the facility the befitting legacy of a three-storeyed building remains a watershed in the annals of the hospital’s history. Anukwu also acknowledged the contributions of Pharm. Chuka Chukwuanu, member of the Lagos Action Team for the Golden Jubilee Celebration for his tireless efforts towards ensuring that the event scheduled for 31 March to 3 April, 2022 is a huge success.