By Erewunmi Peace

Reports have emerged claiming that Chief Oludolapo Ibukun Akinkugbe, a doyen of pharmacy and respected industrialist, has passed away at the age of 96. However, as at press time, no official statement has been released by his family or professional bodies to confirm the news.

Chief Olu Akinkugbe, born on 5 December 1928 in Ondo town, Ondo State, is widely celebrated as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical and business sectors. He was the son of High Chief Odofin Akinkugbe and Mrs. Grace Akinkugbe, and his early education began in Ondo before he gained admission into the Yaba School of Pharmacy in 1946.

Over the decades, Akinkugbe distinguished himself as a pioneer pharmacist, entrepreneur, and business leader. He served as the first Nigerian chairman of Procter & Gamble Nigeria Plc, was once chairman of Beecham (now GlaxoSmithKline), and held leadership roles in various companies including Palm Chemist, Spectrum Books, and Vitalink Pharmaceutical Industries.

He was also a pioneer General Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Pharmacists (NUP) and contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry through manufacturing, distribution, and professional development.

In recognition of his contributions, Chief Akinkugbe received numerous honours, including the establishment of the Olu Akinkugbe Business Law in Africa Fellowship at Lagos Business School. His 90th birthday in 2018 was marked with national tributes, including a message from President Muhammadu Buhari celebrating his achievements.

If confirmed, his passing would mark the end of an era for Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry and business community, where he is fondly remembered as a mentor, investor, and nation builder.

As at the time of filing this report, there has been no official confirmation from the Akinkugbe family or relevant professional associations.