An Imperfect Storm

“This book presents a unique account of Nigeria's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. NCDC emerged from that experience as a beacon of hope in our nation's darkest hours. This book provides a narrative of resilience, diplomacy, and the collective effort against a common challenge. It serves as a reminder of the highs, lows, and unwavering spirit that enabled our country's response to an unprecedented global crisis. I am left with even deeper admiration and respect, for those at the frontline of our country’s health security.”

—Yemi Osinbajo GCON. Vice President of Nigeria (2015 – May 2023)

“This book provides a compelling narrative of Nigeria's COVID-19 response, as told through Chikwe’s unique lens as DG of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control. I commend this book for its exploration of Nigeria's resilient response—a true testament to collaborative efforts, leadership, and the unwavering spirit that influenced an entire nation facing a global crisis. I recommend this book to leaders across the world aspiring to strengthen their country's health security, as it provides valuable insights to navigate health challenges.”

—Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization

“An Imperfect Storm is a riveting account of the battle against COVID-19 by one of Nigeria’s frontline heroes in that battle, Chikwe Ihekweazu and his wife and partner Vivianne. But the book is much more than that. It is also a fascinating journey through multiple facets of the national and global public health landscape. Told through a personal and biographical lens that weaves in the couple’s love story, it is a read that once started is difficult to put down. I strongly recommend it to all those seeking to learn more about infectious disease control and management whilst enjoying a compelling narrative.”

—Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General, World Trade Organization

“Once I started reading An Imperfect Storm, I greedily consumed it in a marathon, unable to tear myself away. It is rare to find a book that is so many things at once. It is a gripping page turner, rich, vivid and as compelling as the best thrillers, and a primer on how to lead, inspire and achieve change.”

—Ike Anya, Author of Small by Small: Becoming a Doctor in 1990s Nigeria

“An Imperfect Storm is an excellent playbook on leadership in an African context and a powerful guide to building a resilient African institution. It should be mandatory reading for anyone grappling with either. But more than anything it’s a testament to Chikwe’s incredible love for country and his strong and uncompromising sense of duty. We owe him.”

—Moky Makura, Executive Director, Africa No Filter

“An Imperfect Storm is such an apt title for the heroic efforts of a few patriots like Chikwe Ihekweazu who had to guide Nigeria through what many feared would be a monumental COVID-19 crisis.”

—Atedo Peterside CON, President & Founder of Anap Foundation & Chairman of the Anap Foundation COVID-19 Think Tank