The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has called on the Association of Hospitals and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN) to uphold high ethical standards in their practice and to collaborate on combating drug abuse, which she described as having interconnection with insecurity.
Mrs. Anani made the call at the cocktail organized by AHAPN, which held at the SIO Event Center in the Government Reserved Area (GRA), Benin City. While welcoming participants to Edo State, she emphasized its vibrant cultural heritage, warm hospitality and commitment to progress.
According to Mrs. Anani, “I welcome everybody to Edo State, the Heartbeat of the Nation. We are a people deeply rooted in our rich social heritage and vibrant culture. As the Chairman noted earlier, we are a people known for our warmth. We extend an open hand of welcome to everyone in our State, and I’m confident that you’ll experience the best of our hospitality during your stay. I’d like to express my sincere gratitude for choosing Edo State as the venue for your programme.
”We’re a progressive people, and with our new administration on board, our State is poised for growth and development. Our Governor is committed to driving progress in every area, and we look forward to partnering with you to achieve great things”.
She commended the Association for its efforts and urged them to prioritize the monitoring of pharmaceuticals to prevent the sale of substandard or expired drugs,
citing a personal experience where she encountered a pharmacy that had manipulated products’ expiration dates.
Mrs. Anani stressed the paramount importance of pharmacists adhering to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. She asserted that the State can promote a healthier and more thriving society by tackling the challenge of substandard drugs, highlighting the vital role of pharmacists in ensuring public well-being.
Mrs. Anani reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to healthcare initiatives and effective service delivery, highlighting the SHINE Agenda of the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration, which prioritizes healthcare as a key component.
She expressed optimism that the Conference, which focused on addressing pressing issues related to drug abuse and pharmacy practices, would culminate in meaningful resolutions to fortify the pharmaceutical industry and ultimately benefit the State and the Nation at large.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Association, Pharm. Elechi Oyim, FPSN, mentioned that Edo State was privileged to host the Conference for the first time, appreciating the State Governor for the exceptional hospitality accorded the Association.
He also commended the present administration for its notable achievements, including the construction of the Flyover at Ramat Park.
Meanwhile, the Edo Drug Management and Health Commodity Executive Secretary, Pharm. Kenny Okojie, highlighted the efforts of Mrs. Anani in advocating for women’s appointments in Government, resulting in a record number of female appointees including over fifteen ladies in Government and eight as Heads of MDAs.
Gloria Osemudiamhen
Public Relations Officer
Office of the First Lady
Edo State
PHOTO CAPTION
6th Left: The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani and members of the Association of Hospitals and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN) during a conference held at SIO Event Center in Benin City.
