Following Pharm. Ambrose Ezeh's inauguration as the National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) on December 5, 2024, he has swiftly initiated several initiatives aimed at enhancing primary healthcare delivery across the nation. Renowned for his commitment to quality healthcare, Pharm. Ezeh's leadership has already begun to yield positive changes within the association.
One of the significant milestones under Pharm. Ezeh's guidance is the recent inauguration of Pharm. Lawrence Osaretin Ekhator, MAW, as the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee (CPC) for the upcoming Ifeadigo 2025, 44th Annual International Scientific Conference.
The conference, themed "Technology Integration and Personalized Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice," is scheduled to take place from June 22 to 27, 2025, at the International Conference Center, Awka, Anambra State.
The term "Ifeadigo," which translates to "light has come," aptly reflects the conference's goal of shedding light on the critical role of technology and personalized care in shaping the future of community pharmacy within Nigeria's evolving healthcare landscape.
Pharm. Ezeh expressed confidence in Pharm. Ekhator's capabilities, noting his extensive experience as the immediate past Chairman of ACPN Lagos. He stated, "Pharm. Ekhator has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and an unwavering dedication to community pharmacy. His expertise will be invaluable in ensuring a successful conference that addresses the needs of our pharmacists and the communities they serve."
Pharm. Ekhator, who has been an active member of ACPN, is well-regarded for his innovative thinking and successful project execution within the pharmaceutical field. His previous role as Lagos Chairman has equipped him with valuable insights and a strong network, positioning him to effectively steer the planning for the forthcoming conference.
In his acceptance speech, Pharm. Ekhator expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the CPC. "I am honored to accept this role, especially as we prepare for an event that celebrates the integration of technology in community pharmacy. Together, we will develop engaging programs that emphasize the importance of personalized care and highlight the pivotal role pharmacists play in delivering quality services," he stated.
The Central Planning Committee will focus on developing frameworks for professional development, community outreach, and advocacy during the conference. With the evolving landscape of healthcare, particularly in recent years, the CPC's initiatives are anticipated to be instrumental in addressing current challenges and promoting best practices across the industry.
As Pharm. Ezeh continues to lead the ACPN, stakeholders from the pharmaceutical community remain optimistic about the fresh perspectives and proactive strategies being introduced, especially with Pharm. Ekhator at the helm of the CPC. Both leaders are dedicated to ensuring that community pharmacists play an integral role in enhancing health outcomes for all Nigerians.
This appointment and the upcoming Ifeadigo conference signify a forward-thinking approach within the ACPN, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in community pharmacy practice while positioning pharmacists as pivotal agents in facilitating equitable healthcare in Nigeria through the integration of technology and personalized care.
