The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Akwa Ibom State Branch, successfully convened its 5th Annual Scientific Conference, ACPN Ibom Day 2026, on 17–18 June 2026 at Ibom Hall, IBB Avenue, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The conference was held under the theme: “Empowering Community Pharmacists: Expanding Roles in Public Health, Technology and Patient-Centred Care.” The theme reflected the growing responsibilities of community pharmacists in strengthening healthcare delivery, embracing technology, promoting public health, and providing patient-centred pharmaceutical care.
The two-day programme featured a rich combination of scientific presentations, professional development activities, industry presentations, stakeholder engagement and advocacy. The opening day included the formal opening ceremony chaired by Dr Magnus Nnaemeka Chukwuekezie, the South-South Regional Head, Keystone Bank and the Founder & Chairman, Everyday Foods Group, presentations by pharmaceutical companies and the grand finale and award presentation of the Anti-Drug Abuse School Competition (ADASC). The competition, moderated by the Immediate Past Chairman of ACPN Akwa Ibom State Branch, Pharm. Tony Anderson, formed an important component of ACPN Akwa Ibom State’s commitment to preventing substance abuse among young people through school-based education and advocacy. Divine Seeds High School, Eket emerged as the overall winner of the competition among five grand finalists which included Beulah International School, Etinan, Monef High School, Uyo, Jesus Saves School, Uyo and State College, Ikot Ekpene. Redemption Academy, Uyo emerged as the winner of the Anti-Drug Abuse Skit, while State College, Ikot Ekpene won the Anti-Drug Abuse Club components of the competition, respectively.
The Chief Host of the conference was Pharm. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh, the National Chairman of the Association, while the Host was Pharm. Donatus Onyeka Adigom, the Chairman of the ACPN Akwa Ibom State Branch. The Head of Pharmacy Department, University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), Dr Ekpema Aniekan Abasiattai delivered the keynote address. Other notable dignitaries at the event included the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Akwa Ibom State Branch, Pharm. Nsikak Effiong, the Clan Head of Ndiya, Ikono LGA, HRH Etebom Bassey Okon Bassey Okoridem who served as the royal father of the day, Obonganwan Pharm. (Mrs) Dora Ebong, the mother of the day, the Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Health, Pharm. Etim Godwin Ubam, among others.
The second day focused on professional training and stakeholder engagement, including a Town Hall Meeting with the Pharmaceutical Inspection Committee (PIC) moderated by Dr, Akwaowo Elijah Akpabio, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Task Force on Counterfeit and Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Food Products. This provided community pharmacists with an opportunity to engage directly with regulatory stakeholders on issues affecting the establishment, regulation and practice of community pharmacy in Akwa Ibom State. A tax-focused professional training session was also organised as part of the broader capacity-building programme, with a total of 141 community pharmacists trained and certified on tax filing techniques.
The conference attracted participation from community pharmacists, pharmaceutical companies, regulators, professional bodies and other healthcare stakeholders. Sponsors and exhibitors included organisations such as Hovid Berhad, Avro Pharma Ltd, MSI Nigeria, Slyken Nigeria Ltd, Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Elbe Pharma Ltd and Fidson Healthcare Plc, among others.
Beyond its scientific and professional objectives, Ibom Day 2026 demonstrated the commitment of ACPN Akwa Ibom State Branch to continuous professional development, public health advocacy, responsible pharmacy practice, regulatory collaboration and the advancement of community pharmacy in the state.
The conference therefore served not merely as an annual professional gathering, but as a platform for knowledge exchange, networking, advocacy, stakeholder collaboration and the repositioning of community pharmacists as essential contributors to the health system. It further underscored the ability of community pharmacists to work together for a common purpose, as the planning committee led by the Secretary of the Branch, Pharm. Ifiok Okon Udoubak delivered a memorable event.
