Today marks 75 days in counting down to "IFEADIGO 2025," and as we prepare for this landmark event, we take a moment to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Lazarus Edward Nnanyelu Ekwueme, known popularly as Laz Ekwueme. Born on January 28, 1936, in Oko, Anambra State, Ekwueme has made a profound impact on the landscape of Nigerian musicology and culture.

A celebrated musicologist, composer, scholar, and actor, Laz Ekwueme is recognized as one of the pioneering lecturers of music in Nigeria. His extensive body of work includes numerous articles and books that explore the vital role of music in the lives of Africans, both on the continent and in the diaspora. Ekwueme's writings delve into how music expresses cultural identity, history, and communal values, and they continue to be a significant resource for students and practitioners in the field.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Ekwueme is the traditional ruler of Oko Kingdom, adding to his rich legacy of leadership and cultural stewardship. He is also noted for being the brother of Alex Ekwueme, Nigeria’s former Vice President, highlighting a family deeply engaged in public service and national development.

As the 44th Annual International Scientific Conference, IFEADIGO 2025, approaches, it is essential to consider the role of creativity and cultural engagement in healthcare and community well-being. The conference, themed "Technology Integration and Personalized Care: The Future of Community Pharmacists’ Practice in Nigeria," aims to bridge the gap between technology and personalized patient care, encouraging pharmacists to innovate and adapt in an evolving healthcare landscape.

Pharm. Ambrose Igwekanma Ezeh, the National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), has emphasized the need for community pharmacists not only to embrace technological advancements but also to incorporate cultural elements that resonate with patients. Just as Laz Ekwueme’s work emphasizes the significance of cultural context in music, so too does the ACPN recognize the importance of cultural sensitivity in pharmacy practice.

The "IFEADIGO 2025" conference is set to gather stakeholders across the healthcare spectrum, fostering discussions and collaboration that merge the worlds of pharmacy, technology, and cultural understanding. As we count down the days, let us draw inspiration from cultural icons like Laz Ekwueme, whose dedication to music and education reflects the commitment to enrich lives—a commitment that the pharmacy community seeks to uphold through improved health outcomes.

As "IFEADIGO 2025" unfolds, we look forward to exploring how the integration of technology and culturally informed care can transform community pharmacy practices and lead to a healthier Nigeria.