The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) made history on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 by breaking ground on a new Research Centre at the Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) located in Oba, a town in the Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

This strategic initiative aims to establish a state-of-the-art research centres across key Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) in Kano, Anambra and Lagos central distribution hub for pharmaceutical products, significantly advancing the pharmaceutical landscape in Nigeria. It aligns with efforts to address drug insecurity and create a more organized pharmaceutical market, while enhancing the country’s reputation on the global stage.

The groundbreaking ceremony marked a momentous occasion, with NAIP National Chairman, Pharm. (Sir) Bankole Aminu Ezebuilo, emphasizing the importance of this project. "It is heartwarming that NAIP is laying the foundation for this centre in Anambra. I want to thank the Executive Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for generously providing this land at no cost, and I extend my gratitude to everyone here today, especially Igwe Ezechuamagha I of Ogidi Kingdom," he stated in his welcome address.

In his remarks, Pharm. Okwor praised Anambra's proactive role in pharmaceutical development, stating, "Anambra has always been a pacesetter. I’m glad we are living up to expectations in the field of pharmacy, especially in the South East. I see the energy in the NAIP National Chairman, and we will all support you in this endeavor."

Pharm. Akintayo added, "Congratulations to NAIP for producing such an inspiring leader who is a son of the soil. Given what is happening in Kano, I believe that the upcoming centre in Lagos will be even more impressive."

The event attracted a diverse audience of key stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry, including members of NAIP Anambra and Delta branches, industry players, and dignitaries such as Pharm. (Sir) Azubuike Okwor, Past President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); Chief (Dr.) U.N.O. Uwaga, Past President PSN; Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, Past President PSN; Pharm. Anthony Akhimien, Past President PSN, MD/CEO, Teo Pharmacy; HRM Pharm (Dr.) Alex Uzo Onyido, Igwe Ezechuamagha I of Ogidi Kingdom; Pharm. I. G. Anukwu, Past NAIP National Chairman; Pharm (Dr.) Oby Uchebo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Anambra State; Pharm. Elechi Oyim, AHAPN National Chairman; Pharm. Ambrose Ezeh, ACPN National Chairman; Pharm. Chisom Uchem, Executive Director, Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (PHCDA); Pharm. Chinedu Obi, Chairman, NAIP Anambra State; Pharm. Gloria Chinwuko, Chairman, NAIP Delta State; Pharm. Egbuna Udearo, Second Vice National President (South), PSN; Pharm. Banji, Deputy Vice President (North); Pharm. Ejiro Foyibo; Pharm. Gbenga Falabi, Past NAIP Chairman; Pharm. Agbomma Esom-Ibe; Pharm. Harrison Abone, Special Advisor to the Governor on Medicals and Pharmaceuticals; and Pharm (Dr.) O.P. Ezeh, retired Director of Pharmaceutical Services.

The new research centres will focus on rigorous quality assurance processes ensuring that all pharmaceutical products undergo thorough evaluations for quality upon receipt and prior to distribution. This commitment aims to enhance the integrity of Nigeria's pharmaceutical sector, confirming compliance with national and international standards.

Furthermore, the centres will be equipped with conference facilities designed for training, workshops, and collaborative research meetings, fostering dialogue and innovation among industry stakeholders. A crucial component of this initiative includes the establishment of a warehouse that will maintain temperature-sensitive products under medically regulated conditions, preserving their efficacy and safety until they reach consumers.

Pharm. Ezebuilo reiterated NAIP's dedication to building infrastructure that meets international standards while contributing to the training and capacity building of the local workforce. "With the right infrastructure and support, we can elevate the standards of pharmaceutical practice in Nigeria and beyond," he affirmed.

This groundbreaking ceremony is a significant step forward for NAIP and the broader pharmaceutical community, underscoring the importance of quality, safety, and innovation in fostering a progressive pharmaceutical industry. As NAIP embarks on this ambitious journey, the focus remains on enhancing public health outcomes through improved pharmaceutical standards, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Nigeria.