**A Full Circle Moment: Reconnecting with Periodontologists at PAN 2026** For many Nigerians, attending a professional conference is a normal affair, but for me, the 5th Biennial Scientific Conference and General Meeting of the Periodontologists Association of Nigeria (PAN 2026) was a moment of closure and a reminder that life's paths are interconnected. On February 25, I found myself at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, as the chairman of the conference, a role that brought me face-to-face with a chapter of my life I thought was long closed. The theme of the conference - "Beyond the Probe: Artificial Intelligence and Digital Tools in Periodontology" - was a perfect blend of technology and healthcare, two fields that have fascinated me for years. My journey with periodontologists began in 1988, when I secured admission into the University of Ibadan to study Dental Surgery. However, due to personal and academic challenges, I never completed my studies and moved on to Economics. Despite this, I never lost touch with my course mates, but it wasn't until the PAN conference that I got to engage with them professionally. In the weeks leading up to the conference, I worked closely with Akinkunmi Oludiran of BudgIT to craft a meaningful opening remark that would reflect the conference theme and BudgIT's engagement with artificial intelligence. Our collaboration with Professor Olubunmi Onigbinde, chair of the Local Organising Committee, ensured that our input was valuable and relevant to the scientific community. Attending the conference was a humbling experience, and I was struck by the warm welcome from my former course mates, who were now accomplished professionals in their field. The conference was a testament to the power of connection and collaboration, and I left with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the work of periodontologists in Nigeria. As I reflect on my experience at PAN 2026, I am reminded that life's paths are not always linear, and that the choices we make can lead to unexpected opportunities and connections. The conference was a full circle moment for me, and I am grateful for the chance to reconnect with my roots and contribute to the growth of periodontology in Nigeria. In conclusion, the PAN 2026 conference was more than just a professional engagement; it was a reminder that our journeys are intertwined and that the people and passions we encounter along the way can