Prof. Dora Akunyili (14 July 1954 - 7 June 2014) was a Nigerian pharmacist and former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) who transformed Nigeria's food and drug regulatory system. She fought against counterfeit drugs and unsafe food products, saving countless lives. Her courage in fighting corruption and organized crime made her a national hero.


NAFDAC DIRECTOR-GENERALSHIP:
Akunyili served as Director-General of NAFDAC from 2001 to 2008, a period marked by significant reforms in food and drug regulation. Under her leadership, NAFDAC transformed from a weak regulatory agency into an effective organization that protected public health. She introduced strict regulations, improved enforcement, and worked to eliminate counterfeit drugs and unsafe food products from the market.

FIGHT AGAINST COUNTERFEIT DRUGS:
Akunyili's most significant achievement was her fight against counterfeit drugs, which were a major public health problem in Nigeria. She implemented strict enforcement measures, prosecuted offenders, and worked to raise public awareness about the dangers of counterfeit drugs. Her efforts significantly reduced the prevalence of counterfeit drugs in Nigeria, saving countless lives.

PERSONAL SACRIFICE:
Akunyili faced numerous threats and attacks from organized crime groups involved in counterfeit drugs. She survived an assassination attempt in 2003, which left her with injuries. Despite these threats, she continued her work, demonstrating extraordinary courage and commitment to public health. Her personal sacrifice made her a symbol of integrity and courage.

PUBLIC HEALTH IMPACT:
Akunyili's work at NAFDAC had significant public health impact, protecting millions of Nigerians from counterfeit drugs and unsafe food products. Her enforcement actions and public awareness campaigns contributed to improved public health outcomes. The reduction in counterfeit drugs alone saved countless lives and prevented serious health complications.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION:
Akunyili received numerous awards including the Integrity Award from Transparency International, the Time 100 Most Influential People, and the Order of the Federal Republic. Her work was recognized internationally, and she became a symbol of integrity and public service. Her achievements demonstrated that determined leadership can transform public institutions.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
Akunyili held a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and had extensive experience in pharmacy and public health. Her strong educational background and expertise in pharmacology informed her approach to drug regulation and public health protection.

LEGACY AND REMEMBRANCE:
Prof. Dora Akunyili's legacy is one of courage, integrity, and public service. Through her work at NAFDAC, she saved countless lives by protecting Nigerians from counterfeit drugs and unsafe products. Her courage in facing threats and attacks made her a national hero and a symbol of integrity. She demonstrated that determined leadership can transform public institutions and protect public health. Her legacy continues to inspire public servants and advocates for public health.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 14 July 1954, died 7 June 2014 in Nanka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
- Education: University of Nigeria, Nsukka (Pharmacy, Ph.D. in Pharmacology).
- Key Achievement: NAFDAC Director-General (2001-2008), transformed food and drug regulation.
- Major Achievement: Fought against counterfeit drugs, saved countless lives.
- Sacrifice: Survived assassination attempt in 2003, continued work despite threats.
- Recognition: Integrity Award from Transparency International, Time 100 Most Influential People.
- Notable: Symbol of integrity and courage in public service.
- Impact: Protected millions from counterfeit drugs and unsafe products.