Pharm. Elechi Oyim, the National Chairman of the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), emphasized that "the symbiotic relationship between hospital pharmacists and industrial pharmacists is crucial to achieving our common goals." His statement encapsulated the essence of the forum, which brought together prominent pharmaceutical leaders to discuss the future of Nigeria's healthcare sector.
Elechi stated this at the just concluded 2025 Economic Outlook & CEO's Forum of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP), which took place on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Providence Hotel, GRA, Ikeja.
In his keynote address, Oyim expressed profound gratitude for the invitation to the event and heartily congratulated the attendees on this significant occasion. He acknowledged the outstanding contributions the Association has made in driving the nation's economic growth, commending the relentless commitment to excellence within the industry despite the challenging business environment.
"The imperative of collaboration cannot be overemphasized," he continued, highlighting how working together could drive innovation, improve healthcare outcomes, and ultimately strengthen the nation’s economy. He stressed that this collaboration is essential for the growth and development of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Oyim called on the government to provide necessary support to overcome challenges that hinder the ease of doing business, particularly in the public sector. "We urge the government to prioritize the growth of the pharmaceutical industry to increase local content," he stated. "By doing so, we can stimulate economic growth, ensure self-sufficiency in meeting our healthcare needs, and create a favorable business environment that fosters growth and innovation."
He also addressed the issue of national drug security, noting that it is contingent upon the government’s commitment to sustaining the pharmaceutical industry. "A strong and vibrant pharmaceutical industry is vital to our nation's health and economic well-being," Oyim explained, advocating for policies that promote an industrial revolution, including rebalancing the exchange rate and offering growth incentives.
In his message of encouragement to the CEOs present, Oyim expressed deep appreciation for their dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence. "Your tireless efforts in advancing our industry are an inspiration to us all," he remarked. He called for continued collaboration to build "a stronger, more resilient healthcare system for our dear nation."
His remarks also recognized the challenge of maintaining high-quality standards in medicine handling, production, marketing, and distribution, stating, "Your dedication to excellence has not only improved but has also enhanced trust and reliability in local manufacturers and brands, ultimately ensuring the potency of our drugs."
Concluding his speech, Oyim reiterated the vital role integrity plays in the industry, urging attendees to uphold the highest standards of quality and ethics in production processes. "We wish you successful and fruitful deliberations with applicable outcomes," he concluded, leaving the audience energized and motivated to tackle upcoming challenges.
The forum was attended by notable figures in the industry, included Mr. Alexander Ayoola Okoh, former Director General of the Bureau for Public Enterprises; Pharm. Ken Onuegbu, Chairman of NAIP and MD/CEO of Xential Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Tanko Ayuba, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); Pharm. Martins Igbonacho, MD/CEO of Altinez Pharmaceuticals; and Dr. Fidelis Ayebae, MD/CEO of Fidson Healthcare. The gathering proved to be a pivotal platform for collaborative discussions aimed at advancing Nigeria's healthcare landscape, fostering innovation, and strengthening partnerships within the pharmaceutical sector.
