The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) recently concluded its 97th Annual National Conference from November 4th to 9th, 2024, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The event attracted over 5,000 pharmacists, industry leaders, and stakeholders nationwide, providing a platform for collaboration, innovation, and progress in the pharmaceutical profession.

Under the theme “Transforming Pharmaceutical Innovation to Facilitate Equitable Healthcare in an Emerging Economy,” the conference featured high-profile discussions on topics ranging from drug accessibility to modernizing regulatory frameworks. With distinguished keynote speakers like Prof. Cyril O. Usifoh, immediate past PSN President, and newly elected President Pharm. Ibrahim Tanko Ayuba, the conference set the tone for future-forward pharmaceutical practice in Nigeria.

A significant milestone of the conference was the election of new officers, marking a fresh chapter for PSN leadership. Pharm. Ibrahim Tanko Ayuba emerged as President, succeeding Prof. Cyril O. Usifoh. Pharm. (Prof.) Henry Okeri was elected as Deputy National President (South), and Pharm. Aisha Tukur Isyaku as Deputy National President (North). These leaders pledged to advance the society’s agenda of excellence and inclusivity in pharmacy practice.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria-Young Pharmacist Group (PSN-YPG) also had its election, where Pharm Tekena George emerged as the new National Chairman of the PSN YPG. The PSN YPG has continued to be the most potent force for driving research and good clinical practice among young pharmacists in Nigeria.

An essential highlight of the conference was the presentation of merit awards by the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Young Pharmacists Group (PSN-YPG). In its inaugural edition, the PSN-YPG Merit Awards recognized seven (7) exceptional young pharmacists for their leadership, innovation, and transformative contributions to the Nigerian pharmaceutical sector.

Among the awardees were Azige Joseph Darius (BPharm), Precious Azino Usuemerai (PharmD, MBA), Olumide Ibikunle (BPharm, MBA), Cordia Ogbeta (PharmD, MBA), Luqman Abbas (BPharm, MBA), Hassan Murma Dankano (BPharm, MPH), and Fahd Khalid-Salako (BPharm). Each honoree’s work spans groundbreaking initiatives in healthcare innovation, community health advocacy, mentorship, and business leadership.

Notably, some of the awardees—Precious Azino Usuemerai, Olumide Ibikunle, and Cordia Ogbeta—are holders of the prestigious PSN-YPG Fellowship, awarded in 2023. This dual recognition underscores the group’s commitment to identifying and nurturing outstanding talent, exemplifying the alignment of innovation and leadership in advancing the pharmaceutical profession.

The conference concluded with several resolutions to drive growth and innovation in Nigeria’s healthcare sector. The PSN called for increased government funding for pharmaceutical research and urged collaboration among stakeholders to boost local drug manufacturing. The communiqué also emphasized the need to strengthen public health education and combat drug abuse, aligning with the society’s broader mission to improve health outcomes nationwide.

The 2024 PSN conference not only celebrated excellence but also reinforced the role of pharmacists as pivotal players in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. Delegates left inspired, ready to implement the ideas and strategies shared during the event.

This conference marks another step in PSN’s journey toward a vibrant, innovative, and inclusive pharmaceutical profession in Nigeria.