As we continue our countdown to the 44th Annual International Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), we take this moment to honor the extraordinary contributions of Christopher Ifekandu Okigbo, a prominent Nigerian poet, teacher, and librarian whose impact on literature resonates to this day.

Born in Ojoto, Anambra State, Okigbo is celebrated as one of Africa's outstanding post-colonial English-language poets and a significant modernist writer of the 20th century. His work is characterized by its innovative style and profound spiritual depth. Throughout his career, he ardently opposed the Negritude movement, famously rejecting the first prize in African poetry awarded to him at the 1966 World Festival of Negro Arts in Dakar. He declared his belief that there is no such entity as a "Negro" or "black" poet, emphasizing instead the universal nature of human experience.

In recognition of his immense contributions to African literature, the Okigbo Award was established in his honor by renowned playwright Wole Soyinka in 1987. The award has since celebrated remarkable voices in poetry, with the first recipient being Jean-Baptiste Tati Loutard, a Congolese politician and poet.

As we prepare for "IFEADIGO 2025," taking place from July 22 to 27, 2025, at the International Conference Center in Awka, Anambra, themed—“Technology Integration and Personalized Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice,” we are reminded of the importance of cultural heritage and the power of words in shaping our understanding of identity and community.

Join us as we gather to explore innovative ideas and celebrate the legacies of influential figures like Christopher Okigbo, all while looking toward the future of community pharmacy and healthcare in Nigeria. Stay tuned for further updates as we approach this exciting event!