In this interview, Miss Johnson Ayomikun, a First-class graduate of pharmacology from Olabisi Onabanjo University, shares her inspiring academic journey.
She explains to Sokoya Esther how her curiosity about the human body and the effects of medicine drew her to the field of pharmacology, even though medicine was her first choice. With God, her family, and friends as her biggest influences, she emphasizes the importance of consistency, discipline, and smart study strategies like active recall and using manikins.
Her story reflects resilience, faith and a commitment to excellence, serving as motivation for students aspiring to achieve outstanding results.
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“My Journey into Pharmacology” – Johnson Ayomikun Shares Her Story
Sokoya Esther: Can you share your background with us?
Johnson Ayomikun: My name is Johnson Ayomikun. I studied pharmacology at Olabisi Onabanjo University, where I graduated with First -Class honors. I have always been curious about how the human body works and why medicine can change the way people feel. I would also say that I embody grace throughout my journey.
Sokoya Esther: What inspired you to study Pharmacology at Olabisi Onabanjo University?
Johnson Ayomikun: Pharmacology was not my first choice. My initial plan was to study Medicine, but after unsuccessful attempts at gaining admission, I opted for a diploma in laboratory science at the same school. During that time, I became more interested in pharmacology. What inspired me was my strong desire to be in the medical field and make an impact in people’s lives.
Sokoya Esther: Who has been your biggest influence in life, either academically or personally?
Johnson Ayomikun: God, my parents, family, and friends have been my biggest influences. They encouraged me and supported me throughout my academic journey.
Sokoya Esther: How does graduating with First-Class honor make you feel?
Johnson Ayomikun: I feel grateful and humble. It shows me that hard work pays off. It also reminds me that consistency and determination are key to achieving success.
Sokoya Esther: What were the biggest challenges you faced during your journey in school, and how did you overcome them?
Johnson Ayomikun: At times, I was burnt out and struggled to balance my studies with other activities. It was tough, but I overcame these challenges with the support of my friends and family, who constantly encouraged me.
Sokoya Esther: What strategies helped you achieve such an excellent result?
Johnson Ayomikun: First, I always put God first. I maintained consistency and a good routine, reviewing my work daily. I always studied smart and not just hard. I used active recall, past questions, and techniques such as the “Pomodoro technique and Feynman technique” method and relaxation, balance was achieved.
Sokoya Esther: How did you balance your personal life with other commitments?
Johnson Ayomikun: I treated time like money – always defining time blocks. By setting aside time for work, study, and relaxation, balance was achieved.
Sokoya Esther: What is the difference between a pharmacologist and a pharmacist?
Johnson Ayomikun: pharmacologist focuses on the study of drugs and how they affect the body. Their work is more of research-based, often in laboratories. While Pharmacists deal directly with patients, prescribing and dispensing drugs in hospitals. They ensure patients receive the right medication safely.
Sokoya Esther: How do pharmacologists help prevent harm in patients?
Johnson Ayomikun: Pharmacologists play a critical role in ensuring that drugs are safe and effective before they are brought to the market. They test and screen drugs in controlled environments, ensuring that the right dose is established.
Sokoya Esther: Why is this Critical?
Johnson Ayomikun: It can save lives in critical situations. It ensures that drugs are safe for patients, it highlights that all drugs can be poisonous- it is the dose that matters. She explains that Pharmacologists ensure that drugs are studied carefully before being made available for medical use.
Sokoya Esther: how can pharmacological research help to improve Nigeria’s healthcare system in tackling diseases like malaria, diabetes, and infectious diseases?
Johnson Ayomikun: Malaria is a parasitic infection caused by plasmodium. Hypertension and diabetes are also major health burdens. Pharmacologists play a critical role by identifying the drugs that work best for these diseases. Since there are different classes of antimalarial and diabetes medication, pharmacologists help determine the most effective treatments and ensure that they are safe and patient.
Sokoya Esther: What is the biggest misconception Nigerians have about pharmacology, and how does it affect the field?
Johnson Ayomikun: Many people think pharmacologists are simply assistant pharmacists who only dispense drugs. This misconception undermines the true value of pharmacology and contributes to a lack of funding. As a result, many pharmacologists in Nigeria lack the facilities and resources needed to practice their expertise effectively.
Key Takeaway: Pharmacologists research how drugs interact with the body, while pharmacists apply this knowledge in real-life patient care. Both work hand – in- hand to keep patients safe.
The Role of Pharmacologists in Strengthening Nigeria’s Health System
Sokoya Esther: on a global scale, pharmacologists play a big role in public health. How do they contribute to efforts like vaccine development and pandemic preparedness?
Johnson Ayomikun: Their role is to test drugs and vaccines to see how they interact with the immune system. They also check for possible side effects and ensure the safety and effectiveness of treatments before mass use.
Sokoya Esther: What is the biggest challenge facing pharmacology and pharmacy education today?
Johnson Ayomikun: Outdated facilities, limited funding, and a lack of job opportunities are major challenges. There is also a need for greater empowerment and investment to prepare students for modern healthcare demand.
Sokoya Esther: Do you think Nigeria is not invested enough in drug research and development? If not, what steps should be taken to improve in this area?
Johnson Ayomikun: No, Nigeria is not investing enough. We need to increase funding in local drug development and encourage collaborations between institutions, industries, and international partners to drive innovation.
Sokoya Esther: which area of pharmacology excites you the most?
Johnson Ayomikun: I’m passionate about drug testing, research, and the ability to develop new medicines that can save lives.
Sokoya Esther: What opportunities exist for young pharmacology graduates outside traditional practice?
Johnson Ayomikun: There are plenty of opportunities beyond the conventional roles.Graduates can explore careers in healthcare, data analysis, lecturing, drug research, public health, and even tech startups, especially those focused on health technology.
Sokoya Esther: With the risk of fake and substandard drugs, how can pharmacologists and pharmacists work together to curb this problem?
Johnson Ayomikun: They must collaborate more closely by enforcing stricter testing on drugs before they reach the market. This includes developing advanced technologies that can properly screen medicines, ensuring rigorous pre- clinical testing, and educating the public about drug.
Key Message: Pharmacologists are not just “Pharmacy Assistants”- they are scientists and researchers whose work is essential to advancing healthcare in Nigeria and globally. Their research protects patients, fights fake drugs, and contributes to innovations.
The Future of Pharmacology in Nigeria
Sokoya Esther: how do you think Artificial Intelligence (AI) will shape pharmacology and pharmacy?
Johnson Ayomikun: AI will speed up drug testing and recovery, predict side effects more accurately, and improve personalized patient care. It will make healthcare smarter, more efficient, and more responsive to individual needs.
Sokoya Esther: What lessons can Nigerian pharmacologists learn from advanced countries to strengthen the profession?
Johnson Ayomikun: Nigeria must invite more research opportunities, encourage innovation, and respect the distinct roles of both pharmacists and pharmacologists. These steps will empower the profession and improve healthcare delivery.
Sokoya Esther: Why is post- approval monitoring of drugs so critical?
Johnson Ayomikun: Because it helps reduce the risk of people dying from unforeseen side effects. Continuous monitoring ensures that drugs remain safe and effective even after they are released to the public.
Sokoya Esther: As a first-class graduate, what are your personal aspirations moving forward?
Johnson Ayomikun: I aspire to specialize in clinical pharmacology and healthcare research, with a strong focus on women’s health and chronic diseases. My dream is to contribute to the development of new drugs and advance personalized medicine tailored to individual patients.
Key Takeaway
Artificial Intelligence, innovation, and strong post- approval systems will shape the future of pharmacology in Nigeria. With passionate young professionals like Ayomikun leading the way, the future of healthcare is brighter, smarter, and more patient – centered.
Pharmacologists are more than researchers in white coats- they are innovators shaping the future of medicine, protecting patients, and building patients, and building healthier communities.
Johnson Ayomikun’s insights remind us that Nigeria’s healthcare system can only grow stronger through research, innovation, collaboration, and investment in young professionals.
As the world moves toward AI-driven healthcare and personalised medicine, the role of pharmacologists becomes even more critical. With passionate voices like Ayomikun leading the way, the future of pharmacology in Nigeria is bright, impactful, and full of possibilities.