Great individuals are not shaped by comfort and convenience; they are molded through challenges, persistence, and resolute determination. Their true power resides not merely in their achievements but in their unwavering dedication to creating a positive impact on the world.
Dr. Paul Orhii, an exceptional individual with an extensive background in law and medicine, has continued to emerge as a true champion for public health and regulatory excellence in Nigeria.
During his tenure as the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), he played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and quality of consumables, and other regulated products by implementing a myriad of bold reforms and initiatives which elevated NAFDAC’s operations to new heights.
Dr. Orhii introduced a “zero tolerance” policy towards counterfeit and substandard products. This involved increased surveillance, robust enforcement actions, and comprehensive public awareness campaigns to combat illicit trade. NAFDAC then forged strong partnerships with international organizations and regulatory agencies, promoting knowledge sharing and regulatory harmonization. His transformative leadership at NAFDAC left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s regulatory landscape, prioritizing the health and well-being of its citizens. Dr. Orhii’s journey showcases unwavering determination and the positive impact one can have on the lives of others.
He is known to have transformed NAFDAC into a proactive and responsive institution. He integrated technology to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and improve the agency’s ability to detect and respond to emerging threats. One of such innovations is the TruScan, a handheld device that is used by NAFDAC officials to immediately detect counterfeit medicines.
He also introduced the mobile authentication service (MAS), the first of its kind globally, to enable Nigerian consumers to scratch, text and authenticate medicines on the spot, thus recruiting millions of Nigerians as foot soldiers in the fight against counterfeit medicines. This significantly reduced counterfeit medicines in Nigeria. Through innovation and continuous improvement, NAFDAC’s mission of protecting public health was carried out with utmost diligence.
Recognizing the significance of public health education, Dr. Orhii led educational campaigns on drug abuse, food safety, and counterfeit products, reaching millions of Nigerians with life-saving information. By empowering citizens with knowledge, he contributed to creating a healthier and more informed society.
At the global stage, he was unanimously voted the Pioneer Chairman of the newly created WHO Membership Mechanism against Counterfeit Medicines made up of 193 countries, with the Headquarters at the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, thus bringing honor to Nigeria.
His exceptional dedication earned him both national and international recognitions, including the prestigious African Achievers Award for Excellence in Public Service, and to date, he continues to make significant contributions to public health through consultancy work and collaborations with international organizations, addressing global health challenges.
As Nigeria moves forward, Dr. Orhii’s expertise and experiences make him an invaluable asset to any administration. His exceptional achievements and dedication to public service demonstrate the qualities of a true leader.
Through his unwavering commitment to public health and regulatory excellence, he has proven himself capable of making a positive difference in society. His presence and contributions inspire others to strive for greatness and positively impact lives.
In a world where true leadership is scarce, Paul Orhii’s journey and commitment to public health and regulatory excellence inspire future generations and his legacy serves as a beacon for future leaders, reminding them that true greatness lies in the impact they have on the lives of others.
