From October 1–4, 2025, the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria – Young Pharmacists Group (PSN-YPG) Lagos State Chapter hosted the 4th edition of its flagship conference, Eko Ignites, themed “Beyond Limits: Advancing Healthcare Through Innovation and Collaboration.”
The 2025 edition built on the legacy of previous years, expanding its reach and scope to include a blend of thought leadership, innovation showcases, community service, and professional development — all driven by young pharmacists committed to shaping the future of healthcare in Nigeria.
Day 1 – Opening Ceremony & ThinkPharm Hackathon 3.0
The conference opened at the University of Lagos Guest House Event Centre, where close to two hundred young professionals gathered with quiet anticipation that soon turned into excitement.
The keynote address, delivered by Pharm Kemi Sope-Agbebi, set the tone for the event with a challenge to the audience: to see innovation not merely as technology, but as a mindset — a way of thinking differently, taking initiative, and solving healthcare problems with courage and creativity.
Following the keynote, the Seasoned Pharmacists’ Panel — featuring Pharm Adeshina Opanubi, Pharm Azuka Okeke (represented by Pharm Chiamaka Akubueze), and Pharm Yimika Oguns — explored leadership, value creation, and the importance of building sustainable systems that outlive individuals. Their conversation reminded attendees that the next frontier of pharmacy leadership lies in collaboration and long-term thinking.
The Young Pharmacists’ Panel, with Pharm Bryan Okwuba, Pharm Adekunle Adeleke, Pharm Ifejoku Uzochikwado Pamela, and Pharm Osahenoma Benjamin, offered a refreshing contrast — stories of experimentation, resilience, and purpose from early-career professionals navigating the rapidly changing world of healthcare and entrepreneurship.
The day culminated with the much-anticipated ThinkPharm Hackathon 3.0, which has become one of Nigeria’s leading healthcare innovation challenges for young pharmacists. Teams of three to five participants, including at least one pharmacist or pharmacy student, presented bold, tech-driven ideas to tackle real-world health challenges. Winning teams received cash prizes of ₦400,000, ₦300,000, and ₦200,000 respectively, but every participant walked away with mentorship, exposure, and renewed belief in what’s possible when creativity meets science.
Day 2 – Compassion in Action: Visit to Heritage Homes Orphanage
The second day of Eko Ignites was devoted to giving back. The YPG team visited Heritage Homes Orphanage, where members spent the day engaging with children, donating relief materials, and offering free medications.
What stood out was not the volume of donations but the sense of connection. For a few hours, titles and roles didn’t matter. Volunteers and executives alike played, laughed, and listened — rediscovering that service is the purest form of leadership.
Day 3 – Project 1000: Community Health Outreach in Partnership with Rocason Pharmacy and Stores
The third day marked one of the most impactful moments of the conference — the Project 1000 Community Outreach in collaboration with Rocason Pharmacy and Stores, held at LUTH Road, Mushin.
Over 250 residents benefited from free medical consultations, health screenings, and vaccinations. More than 1,000 packs of antimalarial medications and other essential drugs were distributed. Beyond numbers, the outreach provided an avenue to connect directly with the community — listening to stories, educating families, and offering hope to people who often face barriers to basic healthcare access.
The partnership with Rocason Pharmacy and Stores exemplified the power of collaboration between community pharmacies and professional bodies — a model for how sustainable primary healthcare can thrive when public interest drives private action.
Day 4 – Retreat and Closing Festival
Eko Ignites 4.0 concluded with a reflective retreat and closing festival for young pharmacists. It was an opportunity to unwind, connect, and evaluate lessons from the previous days. Conversations revolved around career growth, leadership, and how to translate the inspiration of Eko Ignites into tangible professional impact.
The atmosphere was one of gratitude — to the partners, speakers, volunteers, and every young pharmacist who gave their time and passion to make the event a success.
A Celebration of Innovation and Leadership
At its core, Eko Ignites 4.0 was more than a conference — it was a statement: that young pharmacists are ready to lead Nigeria’s healthcare transformation. From the hackathon to the outreach, every initiative embodied the theme “Beyond Limits.”
The event also reaffirmed PSN-YPG Lagos’s commitment to empowering young professionals through innovation, mentorship, and service.
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and partners — Jawa International Limited, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, PharmAccess Foundation Nigeria, and Medplus Pharmacy Limited — whose support continues to strengthen our mission.
Our appreciation also goes to our incredible volunteers whose dedication powered every aspect of Eko Ignites, and to our Executive Team, whose vision and leadership brought this edition to life.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on Eko Ignites 4.0, one truth stands clear: the future of pharmacy in Nigeria lies in the hands of bold, collaborative, and compassionate young professionals.
We remain committed to building platforms that nurture innovation, amplify young voices, and bring healthcare solutions closer to those who need them most.
Together, we are shaping a future where innovation knows no limits.