23/10/2025
OPPAN Pays Courtesy Visit to the President
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners Association of Nigeria (OPPAN) paid a courtesy visit to the President/CEO of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, at the NCS National Secretariat in Abuja.
The visit formed part of OPPAN’s strategic engagement with key stakeholders in the cancer control space. The Association sought collaboration with the Nigerian Cancer Society in recognition of its pivotal role as the coordinating body for cancer advocacy, policy engagement, and multidisciplinary collaboration across Nigeria.
In her opening remarks, Pharm. (Mrs.) Ijeoma Okwesilieze, National Chairman of OPPAN, expressed appreciation to the NCS leadership for its visionary drive and inclusive approach in uniting professionals and organizations in the fight against cancer. She emphasized that OPPAN is eager to partner with NCS in the areas of cancer awareness, research, training, and policy development — with a focus on ensuring the safe and effective use of anticancer medicines and improving patient outcomes.
She further highlighted the vital role of oncology pharmacists in the continuum of cancer care — from drug preparation and counseling to treatment monitoring and survivorship support — noting that collaboration with NCS would enhance multidisciplinary efficiency in cancer management nationwide. She also officially informed
the NCS President of the forthcoming 1st OPPAN national summit scheduled for July 2026.
Responding, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, President/CEO of NCS, warmly welcomed the OPPAN delegation and commended the association’s dedication to advancing oncology pharmacy practice. He assured the team of NCS’s readiness to collaborate with OPPAN in professional development, advocacy, and evidence-based cancer control programs that will improve access to quality care. The NCS President mentioned that, members of OPPAN are well represented at all levels of governance in NCS including as Chairs and Secretaries of State Chapters, Committees , National Cancer Intervention Fund ( NCIF) etc. The President also stated that,NCS is for all professional associations interested in combating cancer in Nigeria,and encouraged members of OPPAN to be part of all activities and contribute meaningful to the growth of NCS. The NCS President also commended OPPAN for conceiving the first OPPAN Summit and assured the delegation the full support of NCS.
Prof. Omonisi further stated that he looks forward to receiving the OPPAN leadership and members at the 2025 National Oncology Symposium and Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigerian Cancer Society, scheduled to hold from 28th to 30th October 2025, noting that their participation will further strengthen multidisciplinary collaboration in the country’s cancer control efforts.
Several areas of interest were also discussed.
The OPPAN delegation included Pharm. Paul C. Ijomah (National Publicity Secretary), Pharm. Abdulrahman Muhammed (National Assistant Secretary), Pharm. Bakori, Pharm. Abass, Pharm. (Mrs.) Prisca Egwu, and Pharm. (Mrs.) Hassana.
Also present at the meeting were National Officers of the Nigerian Cancer Society, who joined the President in receiving the OPPAN NEC. They expressed delight over the visit and reaffirmed NCS’s commitment to partnerships that advance cancer control and patient-centered care across the country.
The meeting concluded with both organizations reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening collaboration for cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship through a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach.
Signed:
BASHIR MOHAMMED RANCCAS
NATIONAL DIRECTOR OF PUBLICITY, NCS