The 44th Annual International Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) continued with a dynamic plenary session on July 24, 2025 at the International Conference Centre, Awka which focuses on the theme "Technology Integration and Personalized Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice."
Chaired by Pharm. Azubuike Okwor, Past President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), the session featured a diverse panel of industry experts including Pharm. Doris Mbanefo, founder of Earlybird AlphaForge Graphics; Pharm Ike Ugwu, MD/CEO of Pharmacare Group; Prof. Chukwuemeka Michael Ubaka, Honorable Commissioner for Health in Imo State; Pharm. Ijeoma Nwankwo of the PSN Foundation; and Pharm. Loui Madu, the NAFDAC Deputy Director for Anambra State.
Kicking off the discussions, Okwor highlighted the urgency for pharmacies to embrace digital transformation. "Now is the time for integration," he stated. "The resolution of this conference must reflect our readiness to elevate those who haven't yet incorporated technology into their practice." He called for regulatory bodies to adapt their curricula to ensure future pharmacists are trained in digital concepts, urging the ACPN to establish a committee to assess members' technology integration efforts.
Pharm. Doris Mbanefo followed with a compelling presentation on the importance of integrating technology into pharmacy practice. She emphasized that aligning with global innovations is crucial, stating, "Every aspect of our world is evolving, from agriculture to banking, yet the pharmacy sector has lagged."
She argued that pharmacies must become leaders in technology adoption, as integration is essential for remaining relevant in healthcare. Mbanefo highlighted historical milestones, noting that the journey of pharmacy in Nigeria began with the establishment of the first medicine shop in Lagos in 1887 and the first pharmacy in 1825.
Discussing the digital transformation of healthcare, Mbanefo explained that it involves strategic integration of tools like Artificial Intelligence, remote monitoring, and tele-pharmacy. "Digital Pharmacy encompasses all forms of transformation," she stated, “including E-pharmacy and tele-pharmacy, which are vital for improving access to care, especially in underserved areas.”
She further elaborated on the advantages of technology integration, such as improved accuracy in dispensing, enhanced patient safety, and more efficient workflow. However, she also acknowledged significant challenges in Nigeria, including inconsistent internet connectivity, power supply issues, and a lack of digital skills among practitioners. "To transform traditional practices into digital pharmacy, we must assess our readiness, define a clear digital vision, invest in infrastructure, and train our teams," Mbanefo urged.
Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh, the National Chairman of ACPN, reinforced the importance of digital transformation, asserting, "Digital transformation is key, and we must adopt it as it has come to stay." He showcased initiatives from previous administrations, including advancements in digital retail tools and training programs aimed at equipping pharmacists with the necessary digital skills. Ezeh emphasized the creation of a digital task force committee, aimed at furthering the integration of technology in pharmacy practices.
The session concluded with engagement from the panelists, who shared their insights on the evolving landscape of pharmacy and the critical role technology plays in enhancing healthcare delivery. The strong consensus among pharmacists and stakeholders highlighted a collective commitment to leveraging technology to improve services and outcomes for patients across Nigeria.
As the conference progresses, the push for innovation and collaboration remains a prominent theme, essential for advancing community pharmacy practice in the country.
