The West African Society of Parenteral & Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN), in collaboration with the National Hospital Abuja, will host the WASPEN 2025 Clinical Nutrition Conference from June 17 to 19, 2025, at the Trauma Center, National Hospital Abuja.
Themed “Bridging the Gap: Integrating Hospital and Community Malnutrition Care in Developing Countries,” the conference aims to tackle hospital malnutrition through both hospital-based and community-driven solutions.
The Minister of Health, Muhammad Ali Pate, will attend as the Special Guest of Honor, while the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, will serve as the Chief Host. The Chief Medical Director of National Hospital Abuja, Prof. Muhammad Raji Mahmud, will co-host the event alongside Dr. Teresa Pounds, Founder and President of WASPEN.
Keynote speakers at the conference include:
Dr. (Prof.) Bala Audu, President, Nigerian Medical Association (NMA)
Prof. Chinedum Peace Babalola, Former Vice-Chancellor, Chrisland University
Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed, Esq., FIND, National President, Institute of Diet
Speaking ahead of the event, Dr. Teresa Pounds emphasized the importance of raising awareness about hospital malnutrition and engaging key stakeholders, including state and federal health ministries, NAFDAC, pharmaceutical companies, hospital and others to develop strategies that will make hospital nutrition programs more effective.
The Local Organizing Committee Chairperson, Pharmacist Adesola Clara, assured that Prof. Raji Mahmud and the hospital’s management are fully prepared to host the conference successfully.
Meanwhile, the WASPEN Central Planning Committee, ley by Pharm. Nanret Blessing Basil Ghinsel said they working tirelessly to ensure a seamless event. As part of the pre-conference activities, there will be a hands-on training workshop on nutritional kits in hospitals on June 16. Additionally, a health walk, led by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and other dignitaries, will be held to raise awareness about the impact of hospital malnutrition in Africa.
The conference is expected to attract top health professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders in nutrition and healthcare across West Africa.
