Pharm. (Chief) Kenneth Chinedu Onuegbu, the immediate past Chairman of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP), made a powerful statement during the opening ceremony of the Association's 28th Annual National Conference on June 25, 2025, emphasizing the necessity of a digitally competent workforce in driving innovation and sustainable growth within Nigeria's pharmaceutical sector.
In his farewell address at The Citadel in Ikeja, Lagos, Pharm. Ken reflected on the journey that began in 2021, when the organization set out to unlock the healthcare value chain through local production and reduce dependence on imported essential medicines. He articulated, “Today, reflecting on our progress, it is with deep sincerity and a sense of fulfillment that I say—we have come a long way.”
He lauded the growth from 120 pharmaceutical manufacturers to over 170 facilities, demonstrating the collective efforts of stakeholders in the industry and fostering a promising shift in the dynamics of pharmaceutical production.
Pharm. Ken proudly noted a significant reversal of the traditional 30:70 ratio favoring imported medicines, which has now improved to 40:60. His vision for achieving a 50:50 balance between local and imported products serves as a testament to the resilience and commitment within the sector. “If you recall, NAIP has made it clear that there cannot be medicine security with 100% API importation,” he urged, highlighting the importance of building local capacity.
With the foundational work well underway, Ken called for a renewed commitment to scaling operations, fostering innovation, and embracing transformation—the pillars of this year’s theme: Scale, Innovate, and Transform (SIT). He emphasized the need for investment in digital health competencies, asserting that the COVID-19 pandemic has irrevocably transformed the pharmaceutical landscape, making technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Big Data, Robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) integral to future competitiveness.
To inspire further innovation, Ken introduced Dr. Margaret Ilomuanya, a distinguished scholar and innovator, as the keynote speaker, encouraging attendees to prepare for an insightful address that would lay the groundwork for the themes discussed.
Acknowledging key guests, he expressed gratitude to Pharm. (Sir) Ike Onyechi for his role as chairman of the ceremony and recognized the contributions of industry leaders such as Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim and Dr. Okey Akpa. “Your unwavering support makes you a true icon of NAIP,” he stated.
In a poignant moment, Pharm. Ken reflected on the lessons of leadership imparted by mentors like Prof. Lere Baale, who taught him that true leadership is about planting trees for others, fostering a legacy of service and inspiration. He urged the incoming leaders to view their roles as opportunities for meaningful impact, stating, “At the end of your tenure, what will matter most is not the challenges you faced, but the light you brought.”
As he closed his speech, Ken congratulated award recipients, encouraging them to embrace their moments with pride while sowing hope for the industry's future. “Yes—it is possible. And yes—we can achieve it,” he concluded, embodying the spirit of determination that resonates through the halls of NAIP.
His message of unity, empowerment, and forward-thinking left an indelible mark, setting the stage for a new chapter in Nigeria's pharmaceutical landscape under the guiding principles of innovation and sustainability. Pharm. Kenneth Chinedu Onuegbu's tenure has not only been one of progress but also a profound demonstration of the power of collaboration and vision in shaping a resilient future for the pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria.
