The West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN) has paid a courtesy and inspection visit to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba, Delta State on Thursday, October 24, 2025, in preparation for its 5th Annual WASPEN Clinical Nutrition Conference, scheduled to hold from June 23 to 25, 2026, at the same venue.

The visit, led by Dr. Teresa Isichei Pounds, President of WASPEN, alongside members of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), was aimed at assessing facilities, engaging with management, and setting the groundwork for what is expected to be one of the most impactful gatherings of clinical nutrition professionals in the West African sub-region.

Speaking during the visit, Dr. Pounds described the forthcoming conference as “a timely opportunity to deepen collaboration, share innovations, and advance clinical nutrition practice across the region.”

“Our visit today is part of our commitment to excellence. We want to ensure that FMC Asaba is fully ready to host participants from across West Africa for a truly transformative experience,” Dr. Pounds stated.

“The 2026 WASPEN Clinical Nutrition Conference will provide a platform to address current challenges, promote research-driven solutions, and strengthen partnerships that enhance patient care.”

She further commended the management of FMC Asaba for its hospitality and growing reputation as a centre of excellence, noting that its choice as the host venue reflects WASPEN’s confidence in its infrastructure and capacity to support scientific exchange and professional development.

The conference, she explained, will attract health professionals, nutritionists, pharmacists, physicians, researchers, policy experts, food and pharmaceutical companies, as well as governmental and non-governmental organizations. It will also feature scientific presentations, plenary discussions, workshops, and exhibitions on innovations in nutrition care, technology, and policy.

Members of the Local Organizing Committee expressed optimism that the 2026 edition will build on the successes of past conferences, further solidifying WASPEN’s role in driving excellence and collaboration in clinical nutrition practice.

Dr. Pounds also reiterated WASPEN’s commitment to promoting evidence-based nutrition practice and capacity building in the region. “We are determined to strengthen clinical nutrition services across healthcare institutions, and this conference offers us another opportunity to push that goal further,” she added.

The management of FMC Asaba assured the visiting delegation of its full support toward ensuring a successful hosting, pledging to work closely with the Society in meeting logistical and technical needs.

As preparations intensify, expectations are high that the 5th Annual WASPEN Clinical Nutrition Conference will once again set the pace for innovation, research, and evidence-based nutrition care across West Africa.