Octogenarian Leader Emphasizes Diaspora Role in Transforming Nigeria's Health Sector

At the 6th Annual International Conference of the Nigerian Association of Foreign Trained Pharmacists (NAFTraPh), held recently in Lagos, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, Chairman of MTN Foundation Nigeria and Juli Pharmacy PLC, delivered a compelling charge to Nigerian foreign-trained pharmacists worldwide.

Call for Global Impact and Character Excellence

The former Minister of Health urged pharmacists in Nigeria and the diaspora to "explore the globe and ensure that their impact is felt in lifting the nation's health sector, the pharmacy profession and the Nigerian economy at large." He emphasized the critical importance of creativity and maintaining good character in professional practice.

Conference Theme Addresses Current Global Challenges

Speaking on the conference theme, "Integrated Healthcare and Public Health Systems in the Era of Socio-Economic Crisis: How to Improve Populations' Health Outcomes," Adelusi-Adeluyi commended the association's leadership for selecting such a timely and relevant focus.

The octogenarian leader highlighted the current global socio-economic crisis, noting that Nigeria's environment is "socially, spiritually, politically and economically toxic," leading to widespread hunger, stress, anger, and insecurity. He connected this to the increasing mental health challenges facing millions globally, referencing the 2024 World Mental Health Day theme of "coping with mental health in the workplace."

Central Role of Diaspora in National Development

"The role of the diaspora in Nigeria is now very central," Adelusi-Adeluyi stated. He emphasized the need to harness diaspora impact to strengthen remittances beyond family levels, encouraging foreign direct investment and entrepreneurial endeavors that can facilitate trade and improve community development.

Professional Values and Youth Engagement

In his characteristic wisdom, the leader urged healthcare professionals to embrace core values: "In your little space/environment, be kind, be gentle, be generous, be caring, be compassionate, and be humble, because anybody that is humble will not tumble."

He also stressed the importance of youth engagement, stating that "the world is doing something about the youths, the pharmacy profession must be among those who engage in laudable programmes for the youths."

Expert Insights on Healthcare Integration

The conference featured notable speakers including:

• Dr. Joachim Okafor (Keynote Speaker): Emphasized the need for coordinated effort among all health sector players and innovative healthcare funding solutions
• Dr. Terrance Baker (Johns Hopkins Community Physician): Highlighted the proliferation of fake drugs in Nigeria and Africa, calling for extraordinary measures to save lives
• Pharm. Tolulope Ajayi (ACPN Chairman): Charged pharmacists to prioritize lifelong learning
• Pharm. Azuka Okeke (CEO, Africa Resources Centre): Advocated for pool procurement models and increased investment in local pharmaceutical manufacturing

Association Milestones and Future Commitments

NAFTraPh President Dr. John C. Ejezie expressed optimism about the association's resilience despite socio-economic challenges. Key developments included:

• Launch of the NAFTraPh Fellowship Programme
• Recognition awards for dedicated service members
• Strategic MOU signing with Africa Resources Centre for Excellence in Supply Chain Management
• Continued NAFTRaPhcares health information services

Moving Forward with Purpose

The conference reinforced NAFTraPh's commitment to promoting community service, health education, forming strategic alliances, and strengthening scholarship activities. As healthcare professionals navigate challenging times, the association remains focused on breaking new frontiers of knowledge and creating sustainable impact in Nigeria's health sector.

The event demonstrated the power of unity, professional excellence, and strategic collaboration in addressing healthcare challenges while maintaining the values of compassion, humility, and service that define the pharmacy profession.