FIP Hub announces key appointments to drive global pharmaceutical workforce development
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) Hub has made notable appointments within its workforce development structure, marking a significant step in advancing pharmaceutical practice globally. The newly appointed Global Leads for specific Development Goals include Pharm. (Mrs) Lizette Njideka Ezenekwe as Global Lead for Development Goal 21, Dr Ukamaka Okafor as Global Lead for Development Goal 13, and Pharm. Chima Amadi, who will oversee both Development Goals 13 and 21. These appointments were disclosed in a press statement released by FIP, highlighting the individuals' extensive contributions and commitment to pharmaceutical workforce advancement.
Pharm. Ezenekwe, who currently serves as the national publicity secretary of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), brings a unique blend of expertise to the FIP Hub. Her work spans clinical pharmacy, climate change, and law, making her a multi-disciplinary asset. A dual lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in both Clinical Pharmacy and Geography and Meteorology, she engages in teaching and research that bridges these fields. She has recently participated in international discussions on health and climate change sponsored by the World Health Organisation, showcasing her leadership and capacity for influencing policies related to sustainability in global pharmacy.
In preparation for her new role as DG 21 advocate, Ezenekwe is set to lend her voice to initiatives aimed at improving sustainability practices in pharmacy and the broader healthcare system. Her qualifications include a degree from Harvard Law School in mediation and conflict resolution, alongside her extensive publication record in peer-reviewed journals focused on public health and climatology.
Dr Ukamaka Okafor, who has a wealth of experience as a medicines regulator, health administrator, and public health professional, has been appointed as DG 13 Global Lead. Her previous role as the director of Education and Training at the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria will inform her contributions to shaping workforce policies aimed at enhancing the competence of pharmacists worldwide. Following her retirement, she has transitioned into private sector operations, running a chain of retail health companies and holding an academic position as an Associate Professor of Global Health at EUCLID University. Okafor is also a peer reviewer for prominent international journals and has editorial responsibilities for publications associated with FIP and the African Centre for Disease Control.
Pharm. Chima Amadi, another key appointment, is positioned as Global Lead for both Development Goals 13 and 21. With over ten years of experience working in pharmacy and public health across Nigeria, the United States, and the United Kingdom, Amadi currently manages a £30 million project within the UK Health System aimed at implementing public health interventions in London. His involvement in global health discussions is extensive; he has participated in various high-level summits, including the World Health Assembly and FIP World Congresses. His accolades reflect his contributions, including the FIP Ton Hoek Award and recognitions from the UK government as a global talent in health tech innovation.
These appointments come at a pivotal time for the FIP Hub, which has been actively working to implement its expanded vision since the launch of the original 13 Pharmaceutical Workforce Development Goals (PWDGs) in 2016. The goals evolved to include 21 Development Goals designed to enhance the practice and education of pharmacy professionals globally. The FIP aims to utilise the leadership and expertise of these new appointees to further advance its mission of improving the pharmacy workforce and overall health systems internationally. As they embark on their new roles, each leader brings an array of skills and insights that are expected to significantly contribute to the FIP's ongoing initiatives and the future of pharmacy practice.