..…As CPP, NAFDAC, PCN commend Usifoh’s Leadership
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno; HRM Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, chairman of the Akwa Ibom Traditional Council; alongside other distinguished Nigerians, have lauded the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) for its nearly century-long commitment to advancing the Pharmacy profession and strengthening the health sector.
Governor Eno conveyed his commendation at the opening ceremony of the PSN’s ongoing 97th Annual National Conference in Uyo, themed “Transforming Pharmaceutical Innovations to Facilitate Equitable Healthcare in an Emerging Economy”, held at Ibom Hall on IBB Avenue, Uyo, graced by numerous health leaders and stakeholders, each affirming the PSN’s impact on public health.
Representing the governor, Hon. (Pastor) Anne Abraham, Senior Special Adviser on General Duties, extended gratitude on behalf of the governor and the late First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, Mrs Patience Umo Eno. She acknowledged the PSN’s efforts in fostering healthcare equity and thanked the Society for its symbolic “walk” in memory of the late First Lady, who shared a profound commitment to the healthcare sector.
“On behalf of the governor, I welcome the PSN and all distinguished guests to Akwa Ibom State. We are inspired by your dedication to uplifting the Pharmacy profession,” Abraham said
She noted the enduring support of the Akwa Ibom government in maintaining a peaceful state, allowing PSN to hold its conference in a safe and conducive environment. Abraham also acknowledged the role of Mrs Helen Obareki, the “first daughter” of the state, who has been entrusted with the office of the First Lady to oversee initiatives that align with PSN’s healthcare vision.
“We are delighted to collaborate with PSN for the upcoming grassroots health initiative, ‘Wheels of Hope,’ planned for November, saying the programme, running from 11 to 22 November, aims to combat diseases and bring healthcare services closer to underserved communities, with PSN playing an integral role.
In her remarks, Abraham warmly welcomed PSN members and reassured them of the state’s hospitality, saying, “Thank you for choosing Akwa Ibom State for your 97th conference. I am confident this event will foster new partnerships, innovations, and relationships that will elevate healthcare in our state and across Nigeria.”
Also commending the PSN for its dedication to the advancement of pharmaceutical practice and healthcare in the country, Hajia Wasilatu Giwa, chairman, Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), lauded the leadership of the body for the giant strides in the healthcare sector.
While highlighting the council’s achievements and ongoing reforms, Giwa said the theme, ‘Transforming Pharmaceutical Innovation to Facilitate Equitable Healthcare in an Emerging Economy,’ is fitting for these times as we face challenges such as rising costs of medicines and the impact of the Japa Syndrome.
Urging stakeholders to stay focused on Nigeria’s healthcare renewal agenda, she commended the dedication of the PCN Registrar and announced that the council staff, facing unpaid salaries, will now have financial stability due to recent approvals.
Speaking in the same vein, NAFDAC’s Director General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, who joined virtually, expressing regret for her absence but praising PSN for its contributions to healthcare advocacy.
She highlighted NAFDAC’s Track and Trace technology, crucial for combating counterfeit medicines, and affirmed NAFDAC’s mission of achieving WHO Maturity Level 4, positioning it as a World Research Authority. “This year’s theme resonates as we work towards equitable healthcare,” she noted, adding that NAFDAC’s work aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3, which targets quality healthcare for all by 2030.
HRM Odidem Bassey Etim Edet, the Royal Father of the Day, urged PSN to remain steadfast in the fight against counterfeit drugs, calling for collaboration between the PSN and Akwa Ibom to establish a robust pharmaceutical industry. “Let us work together to ensure that only qualified individuals handle pharmaceuticals in our state,” he stated, encouraging PSN’s efforts in protecting lives through quality control in the pharmaceutical sector.
Pharm. Yaro Budah, vice -chairman of the College of Past Presidents, reflected on PSN’s legacy of leadership and guidance in the Pharmacy profession. He paid tribute to the late Professor Ebenezer Ogunlana who died after the last conference in Gombe State.
While celebrating the tenure of outgoing PSN President Prof. Cyril Usifoh, Budah said leadership in PSN is a commitment to inspire and build strong foundations for future generations, recognising the society’s history of steadfast progress.
In his welcome speech, Prof Cyril Usifoh, president of PSN, noted that PSN would continue to champion innovation, collaboration, and dedication to equitable healthcare as it approaches its centennial, calling on the society’s next leadership to continue advancing key milestones achieved during his tenure.
Earlier, the keynote speech with the title, “Transforming Pharmaceutical Innovation to Facilitate Equitable Healthcare in an Emerging Economy”, was delivered by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammed Ali Pate, who was represented by Dr Obi Adigwe, director general, NIPRD.
The event’s highlight was the special recognition of pharmacists aged 80 and above, including Pharm. (Elder) Dick Onuigbo, Nigeria’s oldest pharmacist, who is set to celebrate his centenary birthday in December. Also honoured were Professor Bona Anayochukwu Obiorah, Pharm. Tunde Elemon, Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, and Pharm. Deji Osinoiki, among others.
Pharm. (Elder) Dick Onuigbo, Nigeria’s oldest pharmacist, in the company of Prof Cyril Usifoh, president, PSN (left), Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, publisher, Pharmanews; Hajia Wasilatu Giwa, chairman, PCN, and Pharm. Deji Osinoiki, at the 97th Annual National Conference of the PSN, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
A cross section of dignitaries and participants at the opening ceremony
L-R, Prof Cyril Usifoh, president, PSN; Prof Stella Usifoh, wife; Hajia Wasilatu Giwa, chairman, PCN, and Hon (Pastor) Anne Abraham, senior special assistant and representative of the Akwa Ibom State Governor, at the Opening Ceremony of the 97th PSN Conference, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
