At the West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN), our mission has always been to advance clinical nutrition practice through education, collaboration, research, and advocacy. The successful hosting of the 5th WASPEN Clinical Nutrition Conference at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Asaba, marked another significant milestone in that journey.
Held under the leadership of a dedicated local organizing team and supported by nutrition and healthcare professionals from across Nigeria and beyond, the conference provided an exceptional platform for learning, networking, and advancing conversations on the role of nutrition in improving patient outcomes.
Over the course of the conference, participants—including physicians, dietitians, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, researchers, and other healthcare professionals—engaged in scientific sessions, panel discussions, case presentations, and practical workshops led by respected national and international experts. The presentations highlighted current evidence and best practices in clinical nutrition, emphasizing its indispensable role in disease prevention, treatment, and recovery.
One of the key messages echoed throughout the conference was the urgent need to strengthen nutrition care within healthcare systems. Malnutrition remains a major contributor to poor clinical outcomes, prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and preventable mortality. Through evidence-based nutrition assessment and intervention, healthcare institutions can significantly improve patient recovery and quality of care.
Beyond the scientific programme, the conference fostered meaningful collaboration among multidisciplinary teams. The exchange of ideas, experiences, and innovations demonstrated the strength of partnership in addressing the growing challenges of disease-related malnutrition and ensuring that nutrition becomes an integral component of patient management across healthcare settings.
We extend our sincere appreciation to the management and staff of Federal Medical Centre, Asaba, whose commitment and hospitality contributed immensely to the success of this year’s conference. We are equally grateful to our distinguished speakers, sponsors, partners, exhibitors, volunteers, and every delegate whose participation enriched the event.
As WASPEN continues to champion excellence in clinical nutrition across West Africa, we remain committed to empowering healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to transform nutrition care. The conversations initiated during the 5th Clinical Nutrition Conference will continue to inspire research, strengthen multidisciplinary collaboration, and drive improvements in patient care throughout the region.
Together, we are building a future where clinical nutrition is recognized not as an option, but as a fundamental pillar of quality healthcare.
About WASPEN
The West African Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (WASPEN) is dedicated to promoting excellence in clinical nutrition through education, research, advocacy, and multidisciplinary collaboration. By bringing together healthcare professionals from across West Africa and beyond, WASPEN works to improve nutrition care and patient outcomes through evidence-based practice and continuous professional development.