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By Bianca Iboma-Emefu
Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo has reaffirmed the state’s dedication to fostering a thriving pharmaceutical sector and advancing healthcare through technology at the 44th Annual National Scientific Conference, “IFEADIGO 2025,” held at Awka’s International Conference Centre.
Under the theme, “Technology Integration and Personalised Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice,” the event brought together top government officials, healthcare professionals, academia, traditional rulers, and industry leaders, including the President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Tanko Ayuba Ibrahim, and the Registrar of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharm. Ibrahim Babasheu Ahmed.
In his keynote address, Governor Soludo highlighted the pivotal role pharmacists play in healthcare and urged them to uphold high ethical standards while embracing technological advancements. “Pharmacists are the heartbeat of our healthcare system. Your work keeps us safe, healthy, and extends our lives. Your contribution will always be deeply appreciated,” he stated.
He emphasized the transformative power of digital innovation, asserting that technology is vital to future healthcare success. “Our vision is to make Anambra a preferred destination to live, learn, invest, work, and relax. Together, we can build a reliable and efficient healthcare ecosystem that benefits all,” Soludo declared.
The conference also spotlighted the importance of effective drug distribution, with Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh, National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), commending the state’s initiatives such as the Coordinated Wholesale Centres (CWCs). He called for clear regulatory frameworks to prevent conflicts between NAFDAC and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN).
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Ezeh praised the Soludo administration’s pharmacy-friendly policies, including strategic appointments of pharmacists to key government roles, which bolster the state’s healthcare infrastructure. He reaffirmed ACPN’s commitment to partnering with government to enhance healthcare delivery across Nigeria.
Represented by Pharm. (Dr.) Ignatius Anukwu, Pharm. Ike Onyechi, chair of the event, highlighted the unwavering dedication of community pharmacists, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and emphasized the need to adopt digital solutions to improve service quality in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.
Prof. Michael Ubaka, in his keynote titled “Digital Health, Personalised Care, and the Now of Community Pharmacy Practice,” declared, “In the digital age, the most impactful healthcare provider is the local pharmacist.” He called for pharmacies to integrate digital health and personalized care to expand access to universal healthcare, aligning with WHO’s goals for equitable health services.
Expressing optimism, Ibrahim announced plans to host the upcoming National PSN Conference in Anambra and praised the state’s efforts to maintain its reputation as a pharmacy-friendly region. “This conference showcases Anambra’s leadership in healthcare innovation,” he said, emphasizing the critical role of community pharmacists in community health.
PCN Registrar, Pharm. Babasheu, shared positive updates on the Oba CWC initiative, underscoring the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals to ensure safe, efficient drug distribution.
As the event closed, participants left inspired to drive forward a future where technology, regulation, and dedicated healthcare professionals converge to improve lives across Nigeria.
