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40th National Conference: ACPN tours Emzor’s Factory as Pharm Coy Sponsors Training of Community Pharmacists on Vaccination

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The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) as part of its ongoing 40th National Scientific Conference in Abeokuta, the Ogun State’s capital, on Thursday, visited the Emzor Group’s Ultra-Modern Pharma Factory located at the Shagamu Interchange of the Lagos – Ibadan Expressway, Ogun State.

Welcoming the Association to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) compliant factory sited on more than 60 Hectares of land, the Group Managing Director of the Pharmaceutical company, Dr. Stella Okoli said she felt elated by the presence of the executives and officials of the Association at the factory.

“I am indeed very excited by the presence of the Association’s representatives,  you are welcome to the largest pharmaceutical facility in West Africa. The  factory known as Emzor Campus is also (cGMP) compliant and has already manufactured and supplied millions of doses of medication ranging from antimalarials, paediatric care, vitamins and antiretrovirals to various international organizations through partnerships for public health intervention.” She said.

Speaking further, the Group Managing Director said; “Malaria is a leading cause of death on the African continent, Emzor now has API Manufacturing Technology Transfer and licensing agreement with India’s Mangalam Drugs & Organic Limited to locally manufacture and distribute Active Pharmaceutical ingredients  (4 API’s) for the treatment and prevention of malaria. This leads to the development of a world class API manufacturing facility in compliance with international standards and the first of t kind in Sub- Saharan Africa. This agreement affirms Emzor’s long standing position to strengthen the Pharma sector in Africa.”

Dr. Okoli while stressing the commitment of the pharmaceutical group to national development in all areas of life said;  “over the last seven years, Emzor has been a major football supporter. Emzor’s sponsorship partnership with NFF extends to the six national teams, including super Eagles with Emzor Pharmaceuticals being recognized as the official analgesics of the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Super Falcons with a strategic partnership with Asisat Osoala, the falcons’ team captain as Brand Ambassador.”

 

Congratulating the Association for its 40th convention, Okoli said “the Association is making a great impact in the Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical industry and Emzor Group would not relent on its efforts to continually give the Association every necessary support.”

 

In his response, the National Chairman of the Association, Dr. Samuel Adekola said that the Association is in the factory to have an eye witness account of the great development in pharmaceutical industry. He said; ” Emzor Group is the foremost partner of the Association, Emzor is positioned as a platinum partnership of the Association. I felt the need for my people to visit as a form of solidarity. Seeing is believing, and we have seen and we have believed that Emzor is a trailblazer in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry. The place is massive and it is an unprecedented development in Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, earlier, as part of the Association’s Scientific Conference the pharmaceutical company,  offered certificate vaccination training to Pharmacists in Nigeria via its 7 modules CPR/BLS Training Program to enhance pharmacy based vaccination delivery.

 

Speaking on the initiative, the National Chairman of the Association, Dr. Samuel Adekola said the aim of the training is to increase manpower in health delivery in Nigeria. According to him, “the training is essentially to increase the manpower in health delivery in Nigeria. The training would go a long way to help the country to achieve the goals of Universal Health Coverage. It is a fact that COVID-19 pandemic has raised the awareness of vaccination as a public health intervention and the ACPN, with the approval of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, is  licensing community pharmacists to commence vaccination of adults in the premises. Therefore, this training comes on board to prepare a good number of our members for the task.”

 

The training which was in partnership with the College of Pharmacy, Mercer University, United States of America (USA) had facilitators from the American Institution to train Nigerian pharmacists in the areas of background information about vaccines; vaccines conditions, patient screening, education and consent; storage, handling, delivering and waste management of vaccines; review of vaccination equipment/supplies; vaccine admnistration anaphylaxis and post vaccine info; recording and monitoring vaccination as well as competency skill check via exit examination. The pharmaceuticals company fully and partially sponsored the training fees of 125 Pharmacists, out of the 200 Pharmacists that  undertook the training.

 

Commending Emzor Group as the lead sponsor of the training, Dr. Samuel Adekola said the pharmaceutical company has once again demostrated its commitment to the development and professionalism of the pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria.  “This is a profound testimony of Emzor’s commitment to professionalism and development of the industry in the country, on the vaccine training program, Emzor has gone beyond the ordinary.” He said.

 

In the same vein, the lead facilitator of the training, Dr. Kunle Tometi, from Total Pharmacy, Dallas Texas said; “Emzor Pharmaceuticals as truly an indigenous company has made another statement through this sponsorship as a leader in the industry.”

 

Speaking on the benefits of the training, Tometi declared that “the training is designed to boost health care delivery in Nigeria. And it is a good thing that the participants have been exposed to a lot of necessary information, ideas and skills that will guide them in their duties. Through this training, Nigeria can now boast of a good number of experts in the area of vaccination.”

 

Speaking on behalf of the Emzor Group at the training, Chukwu Ekwe, Head, Sales and Marketing Strategy, Zolon Healthcare Limited, a member of Emzor Group said, “Emzor is committed to bridging vaccination gaps in the country. Our leadership position in the industry is confirmed by the provision of intelligent solutions to the healthcare needs of our stakeholders. Anyday, anytime, Emzor Group is  committed to the training of manpower to boost Nigeria’s healthcare delivery.”

 

Also at the event, in showing their appreciation to Emzor Group, some of the trainees expressed their gratitude to the company and encouraged her to keep on supporting the development of the industry.

 

Pharma Peter Ochoche, the Secretary General and Project Coordinator, Young Pharmacist Group (YPG),  Nassarawa State, said he was participating in the training under the sponsorship of Emzor. “I am very grateful to Emzor, the company made it possible for me to participate in this training. This is not the first time the company is doing this kind gesture, the company has always been given us platforms to express and build ourselves.”

 

Also Pharma Boniface Cyprian Oke, from Abakaliki, Ebonyi State said Emzor gesture is a step in the right direction. “It is a fact that this training is a step in the right direction. Emzor is building a capacity that is unprecedented in the Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry. And I wish the company would continue is this direction.”

 

Emzor is a privately owned indigenous pharmaceutical company founded in 1984 by Dr Stella Okoli. The Company has grown into a legacy pharmaceutical company with 4 modern factories that manufacture over 140 world-class pharmaceutical products, such as analgesics (the widely used Emzor Paracetamol), vitamins, haematinics, anti-malarial, anti-tussive, antibiotics, antihelminthic, anti-histamine, antacid, and cardio-protective drugs. Emzor has a network of over 120 distributors covering public and private institutions across West Africa. Emzor is the largest indigenous pharmaceutical manufacturer in the country with over 120 products, all NAFDAC approved.

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Meet the Newly Elected People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Southwest Ex-Officio

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Biography of Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla

Prince Ambassador (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla is a distinguished Nigerian leader recognized for his remarkable contributions to politics, traditional leadership, business, real estate, security consultancy, and community development. His career is a testament to dedication, resilience, and visionary leadership.

Political Career

In April 2025, Prince Ewenla was elected as the Southwest Ex-Officio of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), reflecting his strong commitment to political service and regional leadership. Previously, he aspired to represent Lagos State in the House of Assembly in 2019 and aspired for a seat in the Federal House of Representatives in 2023. He serves as a Member of the Lagos State PDP Disciplinary Committee and an Apex Member of the Alimosho Local Government PDP Elders’ Council, actively contributing to party governance and conflict resolution.

Traditional and Cultural Leadership

A proud son of the Baaki Adedipe Royal Family of Abule Egba, Lagos State, Prince Ewenla is a dedicated promoter of Yoruba heritage. In recognition of his cultural advocacy, Iba Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, honored him with the prestigious title of Akinjagunla Aare Ona Kakanfo in January 2025.

He also holds several esteemed traditional titles:

Ajagun-nla of Ojokoro

Aremo Ijako Orile

Ajagungbade of Itori Oke Egba Land

Balogun Wasimi Egba Kingdom, Abule Egba

Aare Adimu Asiwaju-Dada of Lagos

Apase Itage of the Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners (ANTP)

Balogun Adinni of Al-Wasilat Islamic Foundation

Arowosadinni of Abule-Egba

Business and Professional Endeavors

Prince Adedipe Ewenla is a seasoned entrepreneur and professional, leading multiple ventures across the security, real estate, and development sectors. He is the:

Founder of Adedas Development Foundation

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Adedas Security Services Limited

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Adedipe Adedas and Company Limited

Chief Executive Officer of Adedas and Company Global Services Limited

As a Technician Surveyor with vast experience in real estate, he is highly regarded for his integrity and expertise. In the field of security consultancy, he has distinguished himself with academic credentials, including a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s Degree in Security and Safety from IRGIB Africa University.

In 2019, he received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Business Management and Corporate Governance from the European American University, Commonwealth of Dominica.

Educational Background

Prince Adedipe’s academic journey reflects his passion for continuous self-development. His qualifications include:

Diploma in Law from Lagos State University (LASU)

Diploma in Security Operations from the University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Advanced Diploma in Security Operations from the University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Specialist Certificate in Industrial Security from the University of Lagos (UNILAG)

Diploma in Estate Management from Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH)

He is currently pursuing further studies to deepen his professional competence.

His earlier education includes:

Bishop Oluwole Memorial Primary School, Agege

Keke High School, Ijaiye Housing Estate, Agege

Police Training School, Ikeja

Community Development and Philanthropy

As Chairman of the United Abule Egba/Awori Forum, Prince Ewenla has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at community advancement, such as organizing the Abule Egba Day celebrations to promote unity and cultural pride. He is passionate about youth empowerment, having facilitated free computer literacy programs and entrepreneurship training for young Nigerians to build their capacity for self-reliance.

Awards and Recognitions

Prince Adedipe Ewenla’s outstanding leadership has earned him numerous honors, including:

Leadership Award – National Association of Oodua Students

Ambassadorial Award – Metro City People Magazine

Nelson Mandela Leadership Award – ECOWAS Youth Council

ECOWAS Youth Ambassador

Sport Ambassador – Nigeria Football Supporters’ Club

Obafemi Awolowo Leadership Award

Purposeful Leader Award – Yoruba Youth Assembly (YYA)

Award of Excellence – National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)

West African Leadership ICON Award – African Voice Magazine

Platinum Award of Credence – ECOWAS Youth Parliament (CEDEAO Jeunes Parliament)

Merit Award – Music Advertisement Association of Nigeria

Professional Affiliations

Prince Adedipe Ewenla maintains active memberships in several prestigious organizations, affirming his influence across multiple sectors:

Volunteer Superintendent, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)

Major, Nigeria Legion

Professional and Specialist Member, Institute of Security, Nigeria (ISN)

Member, Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria

Member, International Association of Chiefs of Police

Patron, Human Rights Advocacy of Nigeria

National Member, Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) and National Local Government Inter-relation Committee Chairman

Member, Lion’s Club International, Lagos Shasha Club (NLCF)

Additionally, he is a:

Fellow of the Institute of Professional Managers and Administrators of Nigeria (IPMA)

Senior Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Public Resource Management and Policies (CIPRMP), Ghana
Contact: 08023333716

Conclusion

Prince Amb. (Dr.) Adedipe Dauda Ewenla’s life embodies service, leadership, and commitment to societal development. His distinguished career across politics, traditional leadership, business, and philanthropy continues to inspire a new generation of Nigerians to strive for excellence and community impact.

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Innoson motors CEO declares support for Tinubu for 2027

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By Collins Nkwocha

The race for 2027 election is getting hotter as many political players are repositioning themselves to ensure that they benefit and navigate their ways to triumph;a lot of politicians, governors and stakeholders are rearranging themselves in order to get the ultimate prize.

The prophet of the nation , the prophetic hall of fame and Ambassador of peace, prophet Godwin Ikuru has continued to give his unmitigated support to Mr.president, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.Prophet Ikuru has remained a staunch loyalist and supporter of every Tinubu’s political ideology and policy and he has already started his campaign for Mr.president against 2027 as visited Chief Innocent Ifediaso Chukwuma ,CEO, Innoson motors, Nigeria to woo,campaign and strategize on how to ensure that the president retains his seat in 2027

Chief Chukwuma declare d his support for Tinubu against 2027 and reiterated that the president is the only one that can fix the numerous and lingering problems of Nigeria,he recapitulated that Tinubu has done well for the Nigerian nation and called for support against 2027 so that he can complete his excellent work.

Prophet Ikuru thanked him for keeping faith with Tinubu and urged Nigerians to support him so that he can accomplish his journey of revamping and transforming the nation,to the boon of every citizen of the Nigerian nation

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Renewed Hope: Appraising the Transformational Impact of Atiku Bagudu

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By Arome Audu

From the sun-kissed savannas of Kebbi State to the corridors of power in Abuja, His Excellency Abubakar Atiku Bagudu’s rise is a masterclass in visionary leadership. With a career spanning over a decade of impactful governance, Bagudu’s remarkable journey has been marked by a string of groundbreaking achievements that have left an indelible mark on the lives of Nigerians, particularly his people in Kebbi. As the current Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, he continues to soar to new heights, leveraging his expertise and vision to drive economic growth, development, and prosperity for the nation.

From senator to governor, and now minister, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu’s career trajectory has been a masterstroke of visionary leadership. Born on December 26th, 1961, Bagudu’s impact on Kebbi State as senator and governor continues to resonate deeply with its people. His legacy of monumental achievements remains unmatched, with the Zuru Emirate Road standing as a giant symbol of his transformative leadership – a marvel of engineering that has redefined the state’s landscape.

Under Bagudu’s visionary leadership, Kebbi’s landscape underwent a dramatic transformation. The gleaming New Secretariat Complex in Gwandangaji, Birnin-Kebbi, an N949 million masterpiece crafted by Rockwell Nigeria Limited, attests to his commitment to infrastructural excellence. The state-of-the-art complex has become a landmark, symbolizing the state’s progress and potential.

Meanwhile, the FIFA-standard mini stadium in Birnin-Kebbi, built for $1.189 million, has become a hub for sporting activities and community bonding, fostering a sense of unity and healthy competition among the youth. Furthermore, the Matawallen Gwandu initiative revolutionized Kebbi’s agricultural sector, catapulting the state to the forefront of rice production and making it a major revenue earner for the nation. Today, Kebbi’s rice pyramid is a symbol of its agricultural prowess, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.

Bagudu’s impact on healthcare was nothing short of transformative. He breathed new life into Kebbi’s medical facilities, renovating and rehabilitating hospitals, healthcare centers, and clinics, including the Kebbi Medical Centre in Kalgo and the Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital. These once-aging institutions were transformed into ultra-modern facilities, providing top-notch medical care to the people. His commitment to people-oriented leadership also extended to education, where he invested heavily in building and upgrading schools across the state.

The Adamu Augie College of Education Argungu, the Kebbi State College of Nursing Sciences and Midwifery, and the College of Health Technology in Jega were among the institutions elevated to degree-awarding status, opening up new opportunities for students. His leadership and charisma also drew thousands of opposition politicians to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Perhaps most remarkable, however, is the unprecedented N40 billion he left in the state treasury for his successor, a rare feat that speaks volumes about his integrity and commitment to transparency and accountability.

Bagudu’s leadership has been marked by a deep sense of empathy and thoughtfulness, earning him a special place in the hearts of his people. One notable gesture that still resonates with civil servants is the payment of over N3 billion in gratuities to retired state, local government, and local government education authority workers. Similarly, legislators who worked with him recall the N2 billion released for constituency projects across the state, a move that brought development closer to the people.

As a senator, Bagudu’s empowerment programs were trailblazing, particularly the Rice Academy initiative in Dakingari, which trained farmers and provided subsidized fertilizers, tractors, and buyback programs worth N3.5 billion. He also supported agricultural extension workers with 100 motorcycles, enhancing their efficiency. His partnership with OXFAM to distribute one million, three hundred thousand tree seedlings to communities statewide showcased his commitment to environmental sustainability. Now, as Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Bagudu’s innovative approach focuses on job creation, poverty reduction, and wealth generation, driving prosperity for all Nigerians.

Through strategic collaboration with the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), he successfully concessioned the Cassava Bio-Ethanol Value Chain project across six geographical zones. This groundbreaking initiative aims to revolutionize biotechnology, establishing industrial parks on 20-hectare plots across 20 universities and research institutions, and creating over 8,000 jobs. The project’s impact is expected to be profound, doubling cassava production from 62 million tons to 120 million tons, and fostering robust partnerships and resource mobilization.

By prioritizing renewable biomass, Bagudu aims to create wealth, generate jobs, reduce poverty, and improve food security, all while promoting sustainable energy and reducing carbon footprint. Furthermore, his commitment to timely release of monthly inflation figures has been a game-changer, enabling data-driven policy decisions that inform budget allocation, expenditure control, and economic planning. This proactive approach has helped mitigate inflationary trends, ultimately enhancing citizens’ welfare and driving economic growth.

Under Bagudu’s leadership, budgetary policy adjustments have been fine-tuned to drive economic stability and growth. By prioritizing strategic spending, introducing price control measures, and ensuring transparency and accountability, the Renewed Hope Mandate of the present administration has been brought to life. A key milestone has been the reinvention of the National Bureau of Statistics, which has overhauled data collection and analysis, enabling more accurate GDP calculations and cementing Nigeria’s position as a leading economic powerhouse in Africa.

Furthermore, the launch of the revised National Social Protection Policy promises to revolutionize social welfare, while digital project monitoring, geospatial analysis, and collaboration with development partners like the World Bank are ensuring more effective resource allocation and sustainable development. These reforms are paving the way for a more prosperous future for Nigerian citizens.

As a champion of economic diversification and national development, Bagudu has consistently showcased a unique blend of visionary leadership and innovative thinking. With a strong academic foundation in Economics from Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, and a Master’s Degree in Money and Banking from the University of Jos, Bagudu’s expertise has been recognised nationally and internationally. He is a recipient of Nigeria’s prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the Order of Merit of Niger Republic, for his outstanding contributions to public service and economic development.

As Nigeria’s economic landscape evolves, Bagudu’s impact will remain a defining chapter in the nation’s story. His leadership has set a new standard for visionary governance, and his influence will continue to shape the country’s future. Today, as Nigeria charts its course towards a brighter future, Bagudu’s impact on the nation’s economic landscape will be felt for years to come. His story is a reminder that with determination and hard work, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality.

Audu is a public affairs analyst writing from Kaduna.

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