The Nigerian Association of Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists in the Americas (NAPPSA) opened its 19th Annual Conference & Exhibition on Friday, September 26, 2025, at the Sheraton Suites O'Hare, Mannheim Rd, Rosemont, in the Sheraton Grand Ballroom (I and II), Chicago.
The event attracted a diverse audience, including pharmacy students, independent pharmacists, community pharmacists, institutional pharmacists, clinical pharmacists, pharmaceutical manufacturers, and allied health professionals, delegations from Nigeria all gathered to explore the theme "Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Pharmaceutical Development and Healthcare Delivery."
The keynote address was delivered by His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, who discussed the "Intersection between Artificial Intelligence, Pharmaceutical Sector Development, and Government Policies in Emerging Economies." His speech emphasized the critical role that AI can play in transforming healthcare and pharmaceutical practices, particularly in developing nations. He remarked, “As we examine the experiences of our peers in Asia and other developing regions, we must strategically align our government policies to leverage technology for enhanced pharmaceutical development."
The conference also featured engaging panel discussion sessions, where expert panelists provided insights into various aspects of the main theme, fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas. Participants were encouraged to share their perspectives on how AI can be integrated into pharmaceutical practices to improve outcomes for patients and professionals alike.
To culminate the day's proceedings, attendees gathered for a colorful Welcome Dinner Reception & Networking event at Wazobia Banquet Hall, located at 1618 W Devon Avenue, Chicago, IL 60660.
The evening was marked by camaraderie and celebration, and it provided an excellent opportunity for participants to connect and discuss collaborative efforts in the field. During the dinner, His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi was honored with a Distinguished Leadership Award, recognizing his contributions to the pharmaceutical sector and his advocacy for the integration of technology in healthcare.
Dignitaries present at the ceremony included His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, Former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential Candidate for the 2023 elections in Nigeria; Pharm. Emmanuel Chidi Ezirim, President of NAPPSA; Dr. Teresa Isichei Pounds, Founder of the West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN); Pharm. Tanko Ibrahim Ayuba, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, a past president of PSN; Prof. Cyril Usifoh, the immediate past president of PSN.
Prominent academics such as Azuka C. Oparah, Professor of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Benin, as well as Pharm. Ken Onuegbu, Immediate Past Chairman of the Nigerian Association of Industrial Pharmacists (NAIP), Lagos, and Ahmed Mora, Professor of Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice and Chairman of the Governing Council at Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State; Anthony C Ikeme, PhD, Managing Partner, PharmaMedics Inc., West Chester in USA; Valentine Okelu, FPSN, Managing Director/CEO, Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals PLC, Ikeja, Lagos; Mr. Fimi Adesemoye, the President of the Executive Members of the Board of the Nigerian Students' Association.
The conference not only served to strengthen the bonds among pharmacy professionals across the Americas but also highlighted the commitment of NAPPSA to harness innovative solutions for the betterment of healthcare delivery in Nigeria and beyond. The enthusiasm and collaborative spirit evident among attendees promised a bright future for the pharmacy profession in the face of evolving technologies.
