By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Peter Akpe, has said Nigeria’s biggest development challenge is poor policy implementation rather than a lack of good policies. Akpe made the remark on Tuesday during the public presentation of Prof. Peter Owonaro’s book, Pills to Policy: Pharmacy Practice Research in the Niger Delta, at the Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in Yenagoa. He stressed that weak implementation has affected the pharmaceutical sector and urged stakeholders to translate policies into meaningful action.
Poor Implementation Weakens Healthcare Policies
Akpe, who chaired the event, noted that Nigeria has developed several sound public policies. However, he said ineffective implementation has limited their impact, especially within the pharmaceutical industry.
He explained that healthcare guidelines often fail to achieve their intended goals because authorities do not enforce them consistently.
“I count it as a personal honour to share in this celebration of scholarship and service. I appreciate Prof. Owonaro, his family, and everyone who contributed to making this day possible,” Akpe said.
He revealed that he gladly accepted an invitation to collaborate on the publication months before its launch.
“The challenge is not about formulating good public policies but about implementation,” he added.
Book Offers Practical Solutions for Pharmacy Practice
The deputy governor commended Owonaro for producing a book that provides practical guidance for pharmacy professionals across healthcare institutions.
According to him, the publication reflects years of dedication and will remain a valuable reference for future generations.
Akpe also praised the author’s academic achievements and contributions to pharmaceutical education in Nigeria.
BADAPARC Tackles Drug Abuse in Bayelsa
Akpe highlighted the growing threat of drug abuse and explained that the Bayelsa State Government established the Bayelsa State Drug Abuse, Addiction Prevention and Rehabilitation Committee (BADAPARC) to address the problem.
He said Prof. Owonaro currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the agency.
According to Akpe, BADAPARC works closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat illicit drug use and educate residents about drug addiction.
“These policies are extremely important because drugs are being abused,” he said.
Governor’s Wife Commends Author
The wife of the Bayelsa State Governor, Gloria Diri, served as the Mother of the Day during the event.
She praised Owonaro for his dedication, resilience and commitment to excellence throughout his career.
Gloria also applauded the Bayelsa State Government for recognising the professor’s contributions and expressed confidence that he would continue serving the state with distinction.
She thanked everyone who attended the ceremony to celebrate academic excellence.
Owonaro Appreciates Bayelsa Government
Responding, Prof. Owonaro thanked Governor Douye Diri and Deputy Governor Peter Akpe for their continued support.
He said he felt honoured to serve as Chairman of BADAPARC and appreciated the confidence reposed in him.
The professor also paid tribute to the Pro-Chancellor of Bayelsa Medical University, Prof. Tarila Tebepah, for supporting the establishment of the College of Health Sciences in Otuogidi.
According to him, the creation of additional health institutions in Bayelsa has helped produce many healthcare professionals, including himself.
Dignitaries Review and Unveil the Book
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Jones Stow, reviewed the book alongside the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Sawyer, and the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, Niger Delta University, Prof. Gideon Alade.
Gloria Diri officially unveiled the publication. She received support from Dr. Jones Stow, the Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Izibenua Zibs-Godwin, and the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Civil Service Commission, Hon. Perekiye Buruboyefe.
Other dignitaries included the Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa Command, CP Daniel Iyamah; the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, King Bubaraye Dakolo; and the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Les Energy, Preye Berezi, represented by Rt. Hon. Tonye Isenah.
Prof. Owonaro also thanked Prof. Gideon Alade and everyone whose contributions ensured the successful presentation of the book.
