The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, NACCIMA, and the Organised Private Sector of Nigeria, OPS, have paid glowing tributes to Chief Dr. Oludolapo Ibukun Akinkugbe, the pioneering pharmacist and industrialist who passed away on September 22 at the age of 96.
In a condolence message signed by its President and OPS Nigeria Chairman, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, NACCIMA described the late Akinkugbe as “a national icon whose life embodied integrity, vision, and service to both profession and country.”
Chief Akinkugbe, who died just 10 days after the passing of his wife of 70 years, Mrs. Janet Akinkugbe, was widely celebrated as one of Nigeria’s foremost pharmacists and corporate leaders. Born on December 25, 1928, his professional journey began humbly at the General Hospital, Broad Street, Lagos, before he rose to become a towering figure in industry and healthcare.
“He was not only a trailblazer in the pharmaceutical sector but also a model of ethical leadership in Nigeria’s private sector,” Ibrahim stated. “His contributions to industry, education, and community development leave a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.”
Akinkugbe’s career broke several barriers. In 1950, at only 22 years old, he became General Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Pharmacists, where he championed better welfare for his colleagues. He later became the first Nigerian Chairman of Procter & Gamble Nigeria Plc, and went on to lead Beecham, later known as GlaxoSmithKline Nigeria.
Beyond corporate leadership, he invested in education through the Olu Akinkugbe Pharmacy Education Trust, affiliated with the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, to support the training of world-class pharmacists. His philanthropic projects included the Tower of Hope at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the David and Grace Church of Ascension in Ondo City.
According to NACCIMA, Akinkugbe’s impact extended into Nigeria’s industrial growth era when manufacturing contributed significantly to GDP. He was recognized for upholding strong ethical values in business, at a time when many prioritised profit over integrity.
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“Chief Dr. Akinkugbe’s life is a template of excellence,” Ibrahim added. “He proved that success in business can go hand-in-hand with integrity, patriotism, and service to humanity.”
Other tributes have also poured in, with former President Olusegun Obasanjo describing him as “an icon and hero,” while the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria hailed him as a beacon of entrepreneurship and service.
Chief Dr. Oludolapo Akinkugbe is survived by his family, and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
Crediblenewsng.com
