The 44th Annual International Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) continues today, Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the International Convention Center (ICC) in Awka, Anambra State. Themed "Technology Integrated Personalized Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice" with a tagline "IFEADIGO 2025," this year's conference features a robust program designed to engage delegates and stakeholders in meaningful discussions, skill-building sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at advancing the pharmacy profession.

The day's activities commenced with the ongoing accreditation of delegates, ensuring that all participants are ready to benefit from the various sessions planned for today. The first major session, a Business Clinic, will focus on "Building a Viable Pharmaceutical Business," featuring experts who will address the crucial topic of "Ethics Over Price War: A Sustainable Business Strategy in Community Pharmacy Practice." The session will be led by Pharm Chidi Okoro, a Business Consultant and Faculty Lead at Lagos Business School, alongside Pharm (Sir) Anthony Akhimien, Past President of the PSN and MD/CEO of Teo Pharmacy.

In a significant highlight of the day, the Investiture of Successful Candidates from the Community Pharmacists Assessment and Career Progression Institute (CPACPI) will take place, with Pharm (Dr.) Asieba Iyeseun, presiding over the ceremony, celebrating the achievements of future leaders in the pharmacy profession.

The conference will also feature product launches and presentations from reputable companies, including Sylken Nigeria Ltd, Purna Nigeria Ltd, Hisamitsu, and Geneith Pharmaceutical Nig. Ltd. Additionally, there will be an endorsement of the Geneith Pharmaceutical Health Competition aimed at secondary and tertiary institutions, fostering a spirit of innovation and academic excellence among students.

The day will culminate in the grand finale of the ACPN National Anti-Drug Abuse Competition (NADAC) for secondary school students, showcasing the organization's dedication to community engagement and drug abuse awareness.

The opening ceremony, chaired by Pharm (Sir) Ikechukwu Onyechi, Chairman/Founder of Alpha Pharmacy, will be marked by a ceremonial parade of DCPharm awardees, an opening prayer, and the national anthem. Dignitaries will be recognized, and welcome addresses will be delivered by Pharm. Ekhator Lawrence, the Chairman of the Conference Planning Committee, and Pharm Henry Iloh, the Chairman of Anambra State ACPN.

Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh, the National Chairman of ACPN, will address the attendees, setting the tone for the day's proceedings. Opening remarks by Pharm (Sir) Ike Onyechi will follow, along with goodwill messages from international partners, including Pharm Paul Sinclair, President of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP).

The audience will hear additional goodwill messages from distinguished figures such as Pharm Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, Registrar of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN); Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General of NAFDAC; and DIG Frank Emeka Mba, Deputy Inspector General of Police.

The President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, will deliver remarks before the keynote address by Prof. Chukwuemeka Michael Ubaka from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State. The ACPN National Chairman will present awards to deserving attendees, followed by an address from the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR.

As ACPN continues to promote innovation and ethical practices in community pharmacy, Day Two is poised to further enhance the professional landscape, reinforcing the organization's commitment to improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria.