By Obinna Nwosu
The 9th Annual International Conference of the Association of Professional Counsellors in Nigeria (APROCON) has come and gone. However, this Conference stands out as a landmark event that successfully combined intellectual depth, professional networking, and practical knowledge-sharing. Held under the theme, “Counselling and Conflict Resolution”, the conference provided an inspiring and robust platform for practitioners, scholars, policymakers, and students in the counselling profession to engage in meaningful dialogue.
1. Strategic Organisation and Professionalism
From the Opening Ceremony to the closing sessions, the conference was marked by a seamless flow of activities. The organisers, led by APROCON National President, Prof. Osorochi Patricia Obi, demonstrated meticulous planning, ensuring that participants had access to well-structured plenaries, breakout sessions, and interactive workshops. The high level of professionalism reflected Association’s growing reputation index as the leading body championing counselling practice and training in Nigeria.
2. Richness of Content
One of the highlights of the conference was the quality of presentations. Resource persons delivered papers that not only interrogated contemporary challenges in counselling, but also provided forward-looking recommendations. Key topics such as counselling in educational institutions, gender sensitivity, technology in counselling practice, and psychosocial support systems, were extensively addressed. This breadth of content ensured that both young practitioners and seasoned experts left with new insights to enrich their practice.
3. Engagement and Participation
The conference was highly interactive, fostering an environment where participants were not mere listeners but active contributors. Panel discussions allowed for diverse voices, while Q&A sessions enabled participants to critically engage on diverse ideas. The presence of early-career professionals and students added a dynamic dimension, as fresh perspectives blended with experienced voices.
4. Networking and Collaboration Opportunities
Beyond intellectual engagement, the conference created meaningful networking opportunities. Informal sessions, tea breaks, and structured networking events enabled participants to initiate collaborations, explore research partnerships, and discuss innovations in counselling practice. Many attendees noted that the connections made during the conference would likely translate into long-term professional relationships.
5. Impact and Forward-Thinking Vision
The conference reinforced APROCON’s mission of elevating counselling to a central role in addressing Nigeria’s social and developmental challenges. By linking counselling practice with national priorities, such as education reform, youth empowerment, gender equality, and mental health, APROCON positioned itself, not just as a professional body, but as a strategic partner in nation-building. Importantly, the outcome of the confidence pointed towards actionable recommendations, ensuring that discussions go beyond theory into real-world applications.
The 9th International APROCON Conference can be described as a resounding success and a testament to the dynamic leadership of Prof. Obi’s led administration propelling the association’s growth trajectory. It was inspiring, intellectually stimulating, and professionally rewarding. The blend of academic rigor, practical relevance, and collaborative spirit made it more than just a conference—it was a movement advancing the counselling profession in Nigeria.
APROCON has set a strong precedent for future gatherings. If the 9th edition is anything to go by, the association is well-positioned to expand its influence nationally and globally, providing thought leadership in counselling practice and professional development. Participants left not only with enriched knowledge but also with renewed passion for the vital role counselling plays in building resilient individuals and communities.
In conclusion, the 9th International APROCON Conference was a beacon of excellence, combining reflection, learning, and innovation. It was a celebration of progress and a bold step toward shaping the future of professional counselling in Nigeria and beyond.
Obinna Nwosu, a Communication expert writes from Umuahia
