By Ebuka Onyekwelu, PhD
Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo has declared his administration’s readiness to partner with Nigerian pharmacists and investors in the pharmaceutical industry, describing Anambra as a land of immense opportunities.
“We are partners with you. Come to Anambra; we are ready for business,” Governor Soludo declared on Tuesday while officially opening the 2026 conference of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), its 99th edition, in Awka, the Anambra State capital.
Welcoming pharmacists from across the country, the governor expressed delight at hosting the professional body, congratulating its leadership and members for sustaining the annual conference for 99 years.
“Let me say how delighted we are to welcome you to Anambra State, the land of infinite opportunities. Let me congratulate you for sustaining the conference for 99 years,” he said.
He described this year’s conference theme, “One Health, One Pharmacy: Bridging Knowledge, Practice and Policy for National Impact,” as timely and relevant, noting that it reflected the importance of collaboration in safeguarding public health and promoting a healthier society.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements in the health sector, Soludo said the government had constructed and equipped at least five general hospitals, introduced free antenatal services for pregnant women, and provided free childbirth and Caesarean section services in government hospitals.
He also disclosed that his administration had employed thousands of health workers and approved the national remuneration structure for health professionals in the state.
“Our health outcomes are historic,” the governor declared.
Making a strong case for pharmaceutical investments in Anambra, Soludo paid tribute to the late Professor Dora Akunyili and the founder of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, Dr Stella Chinyelu Okoli, who was among the dignitaries at the conference, describing their contributions as evidence of the state’s longstanding influence in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry.
He further noted that Anambra hosts Nigeria’s biggest open pharmaceutical market, adding that the state’s pharmaceutical industry would receive a major boost with the completion of the pharmaceutical hub being developed at Oba in Idemili South Local Government Area.
The governor urged Nigerian pharmacists to explore the investment opportunities emerging in the state, assuring them of his administration’s willingness to support partnerships that would advance the pharmaceutical industry.
He also challenged the PSN to develop a robust framework to tackle fake drugs and address the misuse of pharmaceutical licences by individuals who provide cover for counterfeit drug dealers.
“Find time to enjoy the emerging new Awka,” he told the visiting pharmacists, inviting them to experience the ongoing transformation of the state capital.
In recognition of his administration’s leadership and contributions, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, led by its President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, presented Governor Soludo with an Award of Excellence, reflecting the professional body’s appreciation of his leadership and commitment to healthcare development.
The conference brought together pharmacists and other stakeholders in the health sector to deliberate on the future of pharmacy practice, public health and pharmaceutical development in Nigeria.
Tags: Soludo, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, Anambra State, Pharmaceutical Industry
