In a heartwarming moment that marked the end of a remarkable era, Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, a seasoned journalist, consummate public relations practitioner, and Director of Public Affairs at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has retired after an illustrious 30-year journey of dedicated service to the nation.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Media Adviser, Onche Odeh, Dr. Jimoh’s retirement comes as a result of the Federal Government’s 8-year tenure policy for directors within the Federal Civil Service.
A true visionary and trailblazer, he played an instrumental role in shaping the communication landscape of NAFDAC.
With the passing of the torch, he officially handed over his responsibilities to Mr. Paul Oyemonlan, a Deputy Director within the department, in a poignant meeting with the staff of the Public Affairs Department spread across the country.
Hired in 1993, at the inception of NAFDAC, Dr. Jimoh was entrusted with the pivotal task of establishing the Public Relations Unit for the nascent agency.
His expertise in both journalism and public relations enabled him to craft a robust and effective communication framework for NAFDAC’s critical mission.
Within just two years of NAFDAC’s operation, Dr. Jimoh showcased his investigative journalism prowess when he led the efforts that resulted in the arrest of two Chinese nationals, Fred Huang and Joseph Huang.
This operation also led to the seizure of an astounding 28 lorryloads of counterfeit medicines valued at millions of naira, effectively safeguarding the health of countless Nigerians.
His exceptional commitment and dedication earned him a double promotion in 1999, a well-deserved recognition by the agency’s pioneer Director-General, Emeritus Professor Gabriel Osuide.
This promotion validated Dr. Jimoh’s unyielding efforts in confronting drug counterfeiters and upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
Throughout his tenure, Dr. Jimoh amassed a collection of awards and accolades, including the prestigious Best Worker’s Award. His outstanding contributions were acknowledged by successive Directors-General, including the late Prof. Dora Akunyili and Dr. Paul Orhii.
In 2018, Dr. Jimoh’s expertise was recognized on a national scale as he became a member of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Elimination of Drug Abuse (PACEDA), inaugurated by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
His valuable insights and dedication contributed significantly to the committee’s efforts to combat drug abuse.
In response to Dr. Jimoh’s retirement announcement, Prof. Moji Christianah Adeyeye, the current Director-General of NAFDAC, expressed her gratitude for their collaboration, highlighting the impactful role that the Public Affairs Department played under his leadership. She conveyed her optimism for the department’s continued success and wished Dr. Jimoh well in his future endeavors.
Dr. Abubakar Jimoh, a holder of a Ph.D. in Political Economy, has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian public relations landscape. His academic achievements include receiving two awards for being the best-graduating student in the Political Science Department and the faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Ibadan.
He continued his academic pursuits, obtaining a master’s degree in Political Science from the University of Lagos in 1993, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Management Information Systems from the University of Ibadan in 1997.
His journalistic journey, spanning five years, included roles such as Aviation Correspondent in Lagos and Kwara State Editor at Kano State Government-owned Triumph Newspapers.
Dr. Jimoh’s valedictory session was attended by fellow journalists, who took turns to commend his exceptional achievements as a journalist, adept public relations practitioner, and seasoned administrator.
His legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate within NAFDAC and the larger realm of public relations in Nigeria.
PHOTO GALLERY
