Anambra State Governor urges pharmacists to collaborate on health sector growth during the national event.

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, officially declared open the 99th Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in Awka, the state capital. The landmark gathering brought together key stakeholders to shape the future of medical practice across the country, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.

Addressing delegates at the event tagged Ijele 2026, Governor Soludo called for a strategic partnership between the state government and the professional body to transform the nation health ecosystem. He emphasized that no productive healthcare framework can function successfully without the vital contributions of certified pharmacists.

The conference, centered around the theme One Health, One Pharmacy, focused heavily on bridging knowledge, practice, and policy for national impact. PSN President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, expressed deep gratitude to the governor for his unwavering support in hosting the flagship convention in the state, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.

Advancements in Anambra Human Capital Development

Governor Soludo used the platform to highlight the state administration current prioritization of human capital, detailing major milestones achieved in education and healthcare. State education reforms, which include free schooling from kindergarten through secondary levels, have successfully driven the out-of-school child rate down to 0.25 per cent, marking the lowest figure in Nigeria.

On the economic front, State Secretary to the Government figures revealed that Anambra internal revenue generation has risen significantly to 7.2 billion naira from 2.2 billion naira. These financial improvements have directly funded critical infrastructure, educational upgrades, and public welfare programs across the region.

Transforming the State Healthcare Infrastructure

The administration has revamped the primary healthcare system extensively, recording over 250,000 beneficiaries under its zero-cost antenatal care initiative. Furthermore, the state health facilities have delivered more than 950 free caesarean operations to support expectant mothers safely.

Soludo positioned Anambra as the premier pharmaceutical hub in Nigeria, pointing to the ongoing development of a state-of-the-art Pharmaceutical Hub in Oba. This project, alongside the upcoming Coordinated Wholesale Centre scheduled for delivery early next year, aims to streamline medication distribution and supply chains.

Combating Counterfeit Practices in Pharmacy

During his address, the governor challenged the leadership of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria to partner closely with state authorities to enforce strict operational safety measures. He urged the professional society to look inward and actively eliminate counterfeit practices from the market.

Soludo specifically called for the eradication of illicit shops that masquerade as licensed pharmacies, warning that such dangerous practices threaten public safety. The collaboration seeks to protect consumers and maintain high professional standards within the nationwide distribution network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What event did Governor Soludo declare open in Awka?

Governor Chukwuma Soludo declared open the 99th Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), tagged Ijele 2026, in Awka, Anambra State.

What is the theme of the 99th PSN National Conference?

The theme of the conference is One Health, One Pharmacy: Bridging Knowledge, Practice and Policy for National Impact.

What healthcare projects are currently underway in Anambra State?

Anambra State is developing a state-of-the-art Pharmaceutical Hub in Oba and a Coordinated Wholesale Centre slated for delivery early next year.

Who is the current President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria?

The President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria is Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, who commended Governor Soludo for his support during the Awka event.