by Isi Esene

Former Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Akunyili, has expressed gratitude to Nigerians and other well wishers across the world who have been praying for her since the news of her sickness broke over the weekend.

Akunyili who was flown to India for further treatment after reports indicate a worsening health condition expressed confidence that she will get better.

“I am touched – indeed, overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and affection by my fellow countrymen and women, as well as numerous other well wishers around the world, many of whom have not only been praying for me but have also been mobilizing through the various social networks for God’s healing hands to come upon me.

“I am confident that Almighty God will hear our prayers and grant me quick recovery. I love you all and pray that Almighty God blesses you all,” Prof. Akunyili said in a statement in Lagos issued on her behalf by her Media Advisor, Isaac Umunna.

Umunna in the statement confirmed that Prof. Akunyili is presently receiving treatment in India, saying that she is responding to treatment.

“She was first attended to by doctors in Abuja but had to travel to India on Sunday on their advice for further medical attention. Her husband, Dr. Chike Akunyili, who travelled with her, has spoken with me to confirm that she has started treatment and is responding well. Dr. Akunyili asked me to convey his appreciation and that of Dora to Nigerians and other well wishers throughout the world,” Umunna added.

Akunyili who is a member of the National Confab led the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control  (NAFDAC) in its successful war to stamp out fake and substandard drugs in the country during the tenure of ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo.

She later served as Information Minister in the administration of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

We wish her speedy recovery.