President Bola Tinubu celebrated Mr. Ifejola Arowolo, a public health hero and administrator, on his 80th birthday on Friday.
In a statement, his spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, said, “The president joins family, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating the life of a respected chemist whose career has spanned the public and private health sectors in Nigeria and the United States.”
As the first Chairman of Ondo State’s National Drug Abuse Committee and the state’s former Director of Pharmaceutical Services, the president praised Arowolo’s contributions.
Tinubu praised Arowolo for his unwavering battle against fake medications, teaching his children—including Mrs. Olu Verheijen, the President’s Special Adviser on Energy—the importance of hard work, integrity, and accountability in public service.
Arowolo was recognised for pioneering efforts to integrate indigenous Nigerian medicine with Western practices, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the average Nigerian.
Tinubu described Arowolo as an advocate for education as a fundamental tool for poverty alleviation.
He said the pharmacist’s unwavering commitment to civic duty and adherence to principled governance, rooted in his faith-based academic background, had earned him widespread admiration as a forthright and disciplined leader.
The President wished the octogenarian continued health, happiness, and fulfilment as he marked the significant milestone.