Akunyili has no rival – Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan has described the late former Information Minister, Prof. Dora Akunyili as a patriotic Nigerian who had no rival.

Jonathan stated this at the requiem mass for the former Minister at the Catholic Pro-Cathedral Church, Area 3, Garki, Abuja.

According to him, the late Prof. Akunyili would forever remain a heroine for decades because of her sterling achievements, especially as Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC. Continue

While describing Professor Akunyili in superlative terms, the President said during her life time, she was “diligent, intelligent, extremely patriotic, extremely brave”.

The President said: “Dora was a professor of pharmacy. At the public level, she served in Petroleum Trust Fund, PTF, NAFDAC and then minister.

“Dora was more known as DG NAFDAC, more than when she served as a minister. Most Nigerians knew Dora because of her service. So most of the offices we look for, anybody who has opportunity to serve, we should all serve because what will endear you to people is not necessarily the office you hold, but the service you render”.

He urged Nigerians to emulate her life in public service.

“She sought to protect the lives of Nigerians as DG of NAFDAC and never compromised as regards those who traffic fake drugs.

“One thing that endeared her to me is that, probably I’m one president that has worked with so many women. At times, you noticed rivalry amongst women, but with her you never noticed any rivalry.

“Today, our dear sister has left us but to my brother, her husband, as the Bishop has told us about the virtues of a good wife, you have to thank God you will get that respect as her husband because of her achievements.

“To my children, your mother was a very dynamic woman because her works and identity have given you what silver and gold cannot give you. Yes, it might not translate to monetary rewards, but many will respect and want to assist you as her children”.