26/09/2025
PRESIDENT TINUBU MOURNS RENOWNED PHARMACIST AND PHILANTHROPIST, OLU AKINKUGBE
President Bola Tinubu has expressed a deep sorrow at the passing of Chief Oludolapo Ibukun Akinkugbe, a trailblazing pharmacist, entrepreneur, educationist, and co-founder of Spectrum Books.
Chief Akinkugbe was aged 96.
A statement by Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President,
Information & Strategy, says, President Tinubu describes Chief Akinkugbe as a man of uncommon vision and industry whose work spanned healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
It adds, Nigeria has lost a giant, but his life's work will continue to speak for him across generations, President Tinubu notes.
The President says late Akinkugbe belonged to a remarkable generation of Nigerians whose intellect, integrity, and innovation helped shape modern Nigeria's foundation.
His pioneering contributions as one of the earliest pharmacists in the country elevated standards in the profession, while his co-founding of Spectrum Books expanded knowledge, literacy, and access to quality education for millions of Nigerians and Africans.
Akinkugbe lived with grace, served with humility, and generously gave his wisdom and resources to advance society. His impact on the development of the socio-economic landscape of Nigeria will forever remain indelible. The statement notes.
The President extended his deep condolences on behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria to the Akinkugbe family, Nigerian pharmaceutical, educational and publishing sectors, and all who benefitted from his impactful legacy.
The Late Akinkugbe was the founder of Palm Chemists in Lagos before it was relocated to Ibadan. He was part of the first wave of Nigerians to break the colonial monopoly of corporate boardrooms, using his expertise and experience to champion the emergence of thriving business concerns.
President Tinubu prays for the peaceful repose of Chief Akinkugbe's soul. It concludes.
