Dabiri-Erewa Hails Akunyili’s Daughter As Chief Medical Officer Of A U.S. Hospital
Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians
in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has described the appointment of Dr
Ijeoma Akunyili, daughter of the late Prof. Dora Akunyili, as the Chief
Medical Officer of the Jersey City Medical Center, an RWJ Barnabas
Health facility, in the United States of America, as well- deserved and
not surprising.
Ijeoma did not come to her as a surprise knowing the kind of training
she received from her late mother, a disciplinarian to the core.
Dabiri-Erewa said Nigeria is proud of Ijeoma for her wonderful feat,
which was due to her dedication, resilence and excellence at work.
She implored other Nigeria youths to be inspired by the achievement of
Dr Ijeoma Akunyili, thus bringing positive image to the country.
Dr Akunyili, according to a statement released on the official website
of the centre, is the first African American medical professional to
serve in the role.
Speaking on her appointment, Ijeoma was quoted as saying “I am grateful
for this opportunity, and I look forward to serving the residents of
Hudson County and continuing to provide safe, innovative, efficient, and
equitable care.
“It is a true privilege to lead the clinical effort at Jersey City
Medical Center and to create sustainable health outcomes for our
community.”
Dora Akunyili who died in 2014, served as the Director-General of
National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control of Nigeria
(NAFDAC) from 2001 to 2008 and was later appointed Minister of
Information and Communications.
