The Nigerian Association of Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists in the Americas (NAPPSA) joins the community in mourning the loss of Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, the esteemed founder of Pharmanews, who passed away at the age of 85. President of NAPPSA, Pharm. Emmanuel Chidi Ezirim, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of a man who was not only a journalist and media guru but also a guiding light and an icon in the field of pharmaceutical journalism.

“Indeed, we have lost an icon. Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, affectionately known as Sir Atus, was the first flag bearer for NAPPSA in Nigeria. He played an instrumental role in guiding us through the process of establishing and recognizing NAPPSA in Nigeria,” Ezirim stated.

“Our founding President, Nnodum Iheme, FNAPPSA, has shared many stories of Sir Atus personally walking him through many impenetrable offices in Nigeria. Sir Atueyi was a constant presence at all NAPPSA conferences from their inception, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the advancement of the pharmacy profession." Ezirim added.

"In recent years, as his health began to decline, he undertook efforts to help the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in their new tradition of sponsorship and recognition for their “living ancestral” members. Sir Atueyi was gentle and kind, a true peacemaker, and we shall miss him dearly,” Ezirim concluded. “May his soul rest in eternal peace … Amen!”

Sir Atueyi lived an extraordinary life marked by steadfast faith, integrity, and dedication to advancing pharmacy and healthcare journalism in Nigeria and beyond. He was the visionary behind Pharmanews, Nigeria’s leading health journal, which he founded in 1979. Over four decades, he nurtured it into a trusted platform serving pharmaceutical and healthcare stakeholders.

His contributions to the field of pharmacy and journalism have made a lasting impact, and his legacy will continue to inspire many. NAPPSA and the entire pharmacy community mourn the loss of a true pioneer, remembering him as a cherished leader and an unwavering advocate for excellence in the field of healthcare.