The Association of Lady Pharmacists (ALPs) Lagos State Chapter, has urged fresh graduates of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos (UNILAG) Idi-Araba, on the need to leverage emerging technologies in their chosen niche, as the digital landscape is reshaping healthcare delivery.
The lady pharmacists and their guests made the remarks at the 10th edition of their Pre-Induction Mentorship Programme, which brought together pharmacy graduates, industry leaders, and academics at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba. Themed “Positioning the Young Pharmacy Graduate in the Digital Era,” the event aimed to equip emerging professionals with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to excel in an increasingly digitalised world.
Pharm. Adesina Opanubi, project catalyst, PharmAlliance Consulting Ltd., delivered the keynote address, emphasising the transformative role of digital tools in pharmacy practice. Highlighting the vast opportunities presented by the digital age, he urged participants to embrace technology as a means of expanding their reach and impact in the field.
“Pharmacy is no longer confined to the walls of a dispensary or hospital,” he said. “With telemedicine, digital health tools, and the potential of data analytics, pharmacists can now extend care beyond geographical limitations. The key to thriving in this era is innovation and adaptation to the technological landscape.”
He further encouraged graduates to develop digital skills, such as telehealth proficiency, to position themselves as leaders in a rapidly evolving industry. “In the next decade, pharmacists will play a critical role in shaping healthcare. Your ability to harness digital tools will define your success,” he added.
Opanubi also advised the fresh pharmacy graduates to prioritise creating value over chasing money, stating, “Success does not come from chasing money but from solving problems in your environment. By providing value and addressing real-world issues, you position yourself as an asset, and the financial rewards will follow.” He encouraged the graduates to adopt a problem-solving mindset, asserting, “Even in economic hardship, your ability to offer value will unlock growth and opportunity.”
He also outlined how pharmacists can leverage their skills to explore diverse career paths, including retail, industrial pharmacy, sales/marketing, and healthcare consulting.
Pharm. Dayo Adetola, principal consultant, BORSCON & Co., who was the second speaker at the programme emphasised the importance of passion, continuous learning, and resilience in building a pharmacist’s career.
In a presentation titled “How to Succeed in Your Chosen Career Path,” she highlighted the versatility of Pharmacy as a profession, urging graduates to explore various career options such as academia, community pharmacy, industrial pharmacy, or sales and marketing. “Pharmacy is incredibly versatile. Whether in teaching, manufacturing, or counseling, you can find your niche and excel. The key is to identify your strengths and align them with your passion,” she said.
Adetola explained the importance of aligning early career choices with long-term aspirations. She said, “If you want to be a superintendent pharmacist, seek roles in community pharmacy. If your interest lies in industrial pharmacy, pursue opportunities in manufacturing companies.”
She also underscored the need for resilience, advising graduates to overcome setbacks with determination. “Your ability to rise after challenges defines your success. Seek help when needed—hiding struggles out of pride or fear only worsens them. Don’t suffer in silence; ask for help, learn from others, and keep moving forward,” she counseled.
Additionally, Adetola cautioned against the potential distractions of technology, advising them to use technology wisely to enhance their skills, and not to derail their goals
Also speaking at the event, Pharm. Joy Adesina, a strategic leader in pharmaceutical process development and manufacturing, emphasised the importance of understanding the full spectrum of pharmaceutical operations, noting that Pharmacy is not just about dispensing medication. “It involves driving innovation in the pharmaceutical industry, contributing to process development, and improving healthcare outcomes on a large scale.”
She encouraged the Pharmacy graduates to explore the industrial pharmacy sector, adding that the future of industrial pharmacy lies in their hands, as the field offers incredible potential for those willing to innovate and lead.
Speaking on the programme’s theme, the Chairman of ALPs, Lagos Chapter, Dr Afusat Adesina, stressed the importance of preparing graduates for a technology-driven world. She said being in the digital era, driven by artificial intelligence and software, requires that pharmacists enter the professional space, and adapt to the innovations shaping this global village.
She highlighted the programme’s impact under her leadership, noting how it has connected young pharmacists with experienced mentors, fostering career growth in public health, industrial pharmacy, and community practice. “This initiative has helped many graduates thrive,” she said, urging graduates to pursue local opportunities rather than seeking them abroad. Japa is not the only way to succeed. With focus and clear goals, you can achieve remarkable success right here in Nigeria,” she asserted.
Reaffirming the association’s commitment to nurturing future professionals, Adesina explained that the mentorship programme is one of their pivotal activities, through which they raise capable pharmacists who will contribute to the profession and society. “This year, we introduced the presentation of plaques to resource persons as a token of appreciation.” She also called on senior pharmacists to share their knowledge, saying, that their experiences are key in guiding the younger ones.”
In a chat with Pharmanewsonline, Pharm. (Dr) Modupe Ologunagba, chairperson of the mentorship programme planning committee, elaborated on the vision behind the initiative, noting that the programme was created to support young graduates as they transition from academia to the professional world. “We wanted a platform where they could connect with industry leaders and gain practical insights for excelling in their careers. Today’s challenges in the profession are not just aacademic, they are practical, and we want our graduates to be well-prepared.”
She also highlighted the need for young pharmacists to stay engaged with emerging technologies, as the digital landscape is reshaping healthcare delivery, and young pharmacists must stay informed to thrive in this increasingly tech-driven profession.
Expressing gratitude to the ALPs leadership, Nifesimi, class representative of the 500-level graduating pharmacy students of UNILAG, said, “We are deeply grateful to our esteemed speakers for sharing their wealth of experience. Your guidance inspires us to aim higher and contribute meaningfully to the profession.” She also acknowledged the lecturers and induction planning committee for their unwavering support.
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