Pelehadi I of Agudama
Sir (Dr.) Gabriel Lambert Wonyengizuowerinipre Eradiri stands as one of the most accomplished pharmacist-statesmen from the Niger Delta—an exceptional figure whose life fused royalty, intellect, enterprise, public service, and humanitarian impact.
Early Life and Royal Heritage (1934)
He was born on Sunday, November 25, 1934, into the Royal House of King Eradiri I, Amananaowei of Agudama (Ekpetiama) in present-day Bayelsa State. His mother hailed from the Ogiriki Royal Family of Kalama in Sabagreia, reinforcing his noble lineage.
Though born into royalty, his life journey would prove that true greatness is earned through vision, discipline, and service.
Education and Professional Formation (1943–1964)
Between 1943 and 1950, he attended:
- Ekpetiama National School, Tombia
- Ekpetiama Group School, Agudama
- Proctor Memorial School, Kaiama
He proceeded to:
- Okrika Grammar School (1952–1956)
- Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Ibadan (1958–1960)
He studied Pharmacy at the University of Ife (1961–1964) and qualified as a Pharmacist in May 1964, earning a B.Pharm degree, Diploma in Pharmacy, and Ph.C certification.
He later earned:
- Honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc) – Marlborough University, Hawaii
- Doctorate Fellowship – Institute of Administrative Management of Nigeria
Niger Bay Pharmacy Limited: Industrial Breakthrough (1967 onward)
Sir Lambert rose to national prominence in 1967 with the establishment of Niger Bay Pharmacy Limited, Port Harcourt, one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous pharmaceutical firms.
As Managing Director and Superintendent Pharmacist, he expanded operations to:
- Lagos
- Ahoada
- Agudama (Ekpetiama)
The company thrived in the post–civil war era, supported by the Indigenization Decree, promoting local pharmaceutical production.
It became:
- A major driver of local drug manufacturing
- A trusted healthcare provider nationwide
- A critical intervention platform during emergencies, including the 1971 cholera outbreak
International recognition followed:
- Oscar Prize, Madrid (1990)
- Olympic Award (1992) for ethical pharmaceutical excellence
Professional Career and Regulatory Impact
He served as:
- Hospital Pharmacist
- Federal Government Pharmaceutical Inspector
- Manufacturing Pharmacist
- Administrative Pharmacist
As Pharmaceutical Inspector, he led a fierce nationwide campaign against fake and counterfeit drugs, protecting public health and strengthening regulatory systems.
His work laid early foundations later reinforced by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) under Dora Akunyili, positioning him as a pioneer in Nigeria’s drug safety movement.
He also served as:
- Secretary, Drugs Safety and Efficacy Committee
- Member, Pharmacists Disciplinary Committee
- Chairman, Law and Ethics Committee (7 years)
In 1968, he founded and headed the Central Drug Control Laboratory, Yaba, after WHO training in Copenhagen.
Public Service and National Appointments (1977–1983 and beyond)
- 1977 – Board Director, Michelin Nigeria Limited & Nigeria Airways
- 1978 – Chairman, Rivers State Health Management Board
- 1979–1983 – Personal Aide to Melford Okilo
- Chairman, Government Projects Implementation Committee
As Director of Nigeria Airways, his board left a fleet of 30 aircraft by 1980.
He also served on:
- Rivers State Housing Corporation
- Governing Council, Rivers State College of Education
In 1994, he became Deputy National President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria.
Education, UPE Pioneer, and Philanthropy (1971–2011)
In 1971, Sir Lambert introduced the Universal Primary Education (UPE) scheme in Agudama, establishing and personally funding the first primary school for three years before federal adoption.
In 1974, he founded the Daniel Eradiri Foundation for Higher Education, which produced:
- Over 150 graduates (1974–1999)
- Over 225 graduates (1974–2011)
The Agudama Experiment: Community Transformation
As Chairman of the Agudama Community Development Committee for decades, he transformed the community into a modern settlement with:
- Schools, hospital, police station, magistrate court
- Electricity and water supply
- Post office, civic centres, markets
- Agricultural and craft development programmes
Within 8 years after the 1970 Civil War, thatch houses disappeared.
Humanitarian Intervention: 1971 Cholera Crisis
During the 1971 cholera epidemic, he:
- Supplied vaccines, antibiotics, and medical materials
- Mobilized nurses
- Provided powered boats for riverine outreach
He effectively acted as a one-man emergency health system, saving countless lives.
Political Influence and Ijaw National Congress (2000)
A powerful political strategist, he supported the National Party of Nigeria in the Second Republic.
In 2000, he contested for President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) against Kimse Okoko, polling 405 votes to 453.
He championed:
- Justice and equity
- Resource control
- True federalism
- Niger Delta development
FEDICOM and Diaspora Leadership
He served as Patron of the Federation of Ijaw Communities (FEDICOM), Great Britain and Ireland, strengthening diaspora engagement and promoting Ijaw interests globally.
Faith and Spiritual Life
A deeply committed Christian, he worshipped at Christ Church, Port Harcourt, maintaining a life rooted in faith, humility, and service.
His devotion earned him:
- Knight of St. Christopher – August 19, 1995
Honours and Recognition
- Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR) – December 21, 2006
- Justice of the Peace (JP) – May 29, 2001
- Merit Award by DSP Alamieyeseigha (2001)
- “Living Legends” recognition – July 10, 2003
He also held over 45 national and international awards and fellowships.
Legacy
Sir (Dr.) Lambert Eradiri’s life is defined by four enduring pillars:
- Industrial Excellence – Niger Bay Pharmacy
- Educational Advancement – UPE (1971) & Foundation (1974)
- Advocacy & Leadership – INC (2000) & FEDICOM
- Faith & Humanity – Christ Church & humanitarian interventions
Conclusion
From 1934 through decades of transformational impact, Sir Lambert Eradiri built a legacy that transcends profession and politics.
He remains a pioneer pharmacist, visionary entrepreneur, community transformer, and statesman of enduring influence—a true icon of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
