The 28th Annual National Conference of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) continued on Thursday, June 26, 2025, gathering an impressive assembly of who is who in the pharmaceutical industry, including stakeholders, captains of industry, and academia, all focused on advancing Nigeria's pharmaceutical sector.
Pharm. (Dr.) Obalolu Ojo, MD/CEO of Merit Healthcare Ltd, delivered a welcome address that echoed the energy and insights shared throughout the conference. "As we gather today after a series of engaging sessions, we realize how pivotal these discussions are to our growth and transformation," he stated. "Let this collective effort guide us as we work towards elevating our industry standards and fulfilling our mandate to ensure sustainable healthcare for all."
The day's events began with an interactive session themed "Developing Effective Working Relationships with Drug Management Agencies for Mutual Benefit," led by Pharm. Tukur Ibrahim, Director of Drugs and Supply at the Drugs and Medical Consumables Supply Agency, Kano State.
He elaborated on the purpose of the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF) scheme, emphasizing its goals: "The purpose of the DRF scheme in health facilities is to ensure the continuous availability of qualitative and affordable drugs while improving healthcare revenue and care quality." Pharm. Ibrahim highlighted the importance of developing effective communication channels between pharmaceutical companies and drug management agencies (DMAs) as crucial for sustainable access to quality medicines: "The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing," he quoted Walt Disney, reinforcing a call to action among participants.
Following the interactive session, a panel discussion led by Mrs. Uzoma Ezeoke, Executive Director of Emzor Pharmaceutical Ltd, addressed "Accelerating Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: The Roadmap to Drug Independence." Experts within the panel offered insights and strategies on fostering local production and reducing reliance on imports.
The conference culminated in an elegant closing banquet ceremony, where Pharm. Moses Oluwalade, MD/CEO of Miraflash Pharma Nigeria Ltd, paid tribute to the outgoing administration. "I appreciate NAIP and the executive led by our dynamic and hardworking Chairman, Pharm. Kenneth Onuegbu. You have done remarkably well, and there is so much we will miss about your leadership," he expressed.
"The theme of this conference; 'Scale, Innovation, and Transformation of the Nigerian Pharmaceutical Industry' is more than just a slogan; it is a mandate that we must carry as we leave this place. We must scale up with purpose, innovate with courage, and transform with urgency, working together to create a sustainable pharmaceutical ecosystem across Nigeria."
He urged stakeholders to regard locally manufactured products as the primary choice rather than alternative options, stating, "let it begin with us. To the incoming executive, tonight marks a moment of leadership transition. Your new role is one of responsibility, and we believe in your vision. Congratulations to you all."
As part of the ceremony, awards were presented to recognize exceptional contributions within the industry, with a prestigious 'NAIP Icon of Pharmacy 2025' award presented to Pharm. (Sir) Ikechukwu Onyechi, CEO of Alpha Pharmacy & Stores Ltd, celebrating his impactful role in the sector. This was followed by the induction of the newly elected executive council where Pharm. Bankole Aminu Chinwuba Ezebuilo emerged as the new president, taking an oath to lead the association with dedication and purpose.
With the official proceedings coming to a close, participants left the conference inspired and equipped with strategies and a renewed commitment to transform Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape. The collaborative efforts and insights shared during this milestone event have set a promising course for the future of the industry, ensuring a path toward innovation, transformation, and self-sufficiency.
