The recent induction of pioneer Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) graduates across leading Nigerian universities by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) is a defining moment in the long and necessary evolution of pharmacy practice in the country. With cohorts emerging from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, the University of Ibadan, the University of Benin, and Gregory University, Uturu, the indication is that Nigeria is no longer on the margins of global pharmacy education reform. It is stepping deliberately into its centre.

For decades, pharmacy education in Nigeria, built around the Bachelor of Pharmacy degree, produced competent professionals who played essential roles in the production, supply, and distribution of medicines. However, the demands of modern healthcare have outgrown that model. Today’s patient presents with complex conditions, polypharmacy risks, and a healthcare environment that increasingly demands collaboration, precision, and accountability. The pharmacist can no longer remain at the periphery of care. The PharmD, therefore, is not a mere academic upgrade but a necessary repositioning of the profession.

The expanding accreditation of pharmacy faculties by the PCN further reflects a growing institutional ratification of this reality. So far, the Council has accredited more than 23 faculties for the PharmD programme, signalling that the transition is no longer experimental but systemic. By insisting on rigorous standards in curriculum design, faculty strength, and training infrastructure, the Council is setting the tone for a new professional order.

At the heart of this reform is a fundamental change in orientation. The PharmD model repositions the pharmacist within the healthcare ecosystem. It demands deeper clinical exposure, sharper diagnostic reasoning, and a sustained engagement with patient care. It also opens pathways into specialised practice, residency training, pharmacovigilance, health policy, and translational research. In doing so, it elevates the profession from a largely product-oriented discipline to one firmly rooted in patient-centred care.

Voices from both regulation and academia have rightly framed this transition as inevitable. The Registrar of PCN, Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, has described the PharmD as a response to the evolving dynamics of healthcare delivery rather than a departure from foundational training or a mere status symbol. In the same vein, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Kayode Adebowale, has challenged new graduates to transcend traditional roles and embrace their place as medication experts within multidisciplinary teams

There is also a broader strategic context. Across advanced health systems, clinical pharmacy has become indispensable. Countries such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan have long embedded pharmacists within patient care teams, with measurable gains in medication safety, treatment outcomes, and cost efficiency. Nigeria’s gradual alignment with this model is therefore both pragmatic and overdue.

However, it is essential to emphasise that the growing momentum must be matched with corresponding systemic changes. Educational reform cannot succeed in isolation. Many pharmacy faculties still face limitations in infrastructure, including access to modern laboratories, simulation centres, and structured clinical training platforms. Without sustained investment in these areas, the full benefits of the PharmD may not be realised.

Equally important is the need to create space within the healthcare system for these newly trained professionals. Expanding the role of clinical pharmacists requires clear policy direction, the establishment of residency programmes, and the integration of pharmacists into multidisciplinary care teams. Without these, there is a risk that the system will produce highly skilled graduates whose competencies are underutilised.

The issue of workforce retention also demands urgent attention. Nigeria continues to operate with a pharmacist-to-patient ratio that falls far below global recommendations. At the same time, many of its best-trained professionals are leaving for environments where their skills are better recognised and rewarded. If this trend persists, the gains of the PharmD reform may benefit other health systems more than Nigeria’s own.

For institutions yet to transition, the direction is now unmistakable. The early adopters, especially the University of Benin, have demonstrated that change is possible with commitment and regulatory alignment. What is required now is not hesitation, but resolve. Universities must invest, adapt, and innovate. Professional bodies must advocate more strongly for role expansion.

Most importantly, policymakers must recognise that strengthening pharmacy practice is not peripheral to health reform; it is central to it. The momentum is currently real and growing. What remains is the collective will to sustain it, deepen it, and ensure that its benefits are fully realised within Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has said it is stepping up efforts to close tuberculosis (TB) detection gaps, expand access to testing and treatment, and strengthen services for vulnerable populations.

Speaking at a recent pre-World TB Day briefing, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, represented by the Director of Public Health, Charles Nzelu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to expanding diagnostic access, strengthening domestic financing, and scaling up community-based interventions

Despite being preventable and treatable, TB continues to pose a major public health challenge globally. In Nigeria, the burden remains high, with the WHO Global TB Report estimating about 510,000 new cases annually, including 61,000 children. Health experts warn that a single untreated TB patient can infect between 12 and 15 people in a year, underscoring the urgency of early detection and treatment.

Data from 2025 show that 458,534 TB cases were reported nationwide, reflecting improved case detection. Of these, 57 per cent (262,058) were male, while 43 per cent (196,476) were female. Children aged 0–14 years accounted for 10 per cent (46,952) of all notified cases, with boys making up 56 per cent and girls 44 per cent, highlighting the need for stronger paediatric TB services.

Nigeria’s response is being driven by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare through the National Tuberculosis, Buruli Ulcer and Leprosy Control Programme, with support from WHO, the Global Fund, and other partners. Case detection has improved significantly over the years, rising from 106,533 reported cases in 2018 to over 458,000 in 2025, with more than 80 per cent of estimated cases now being identified.

Community screening, hotspot mapping, and awareness campaigns supported by WHO are playing a key role in reaching underserved populations, including women and children. A frontline health worker at a TB Directly Observed Therapy clinic in Nasarawa State, Margaret Ogbole, said more patients are now coming forward for testing and treatment, aided by improved availability of diagnostic kits and medicines.

However, significant gaps remain. An estimated 63,000 TB cases go undetected each year, sustaining transmission across communities. Other persistent challenges include multidrug-resistant TB, TB-HIV co-infection, stigma, and limited access to testing in hard-to-reach areas.

The economic burden of the disease is also considerable, with about 71 per cent of TB patients and their households facing catastrophic costs due to lost income and out-of-pocket expenses. With declining external funding, stakeholders have emphasised the need for increased domestic investment to sustain progress and ensure uninterrupted access to care.

Experts note that ending TB will require coordinated action beyond the health sector, including interventions in social protection, housing, labour, and education, backed by strong accountability mechanisms.

To improve access, WHO is supporting Nigeria to adopt new innovations that bring services closer to communities, including simplified sample collection methods and faster diagnostic tools. The organisation is also assisting the Federal Government in developing guidelines to accelerate the rollout of these technologies and strengthen the capacity of frontline health workers with support from the Global Fund.

In addition, efforts are underway to develop Nigeria’s National TB Strategic Plan for 2027–2031, aligning with global best practices. At the global level, WHO and its partners are advancing vaccine development through initiatives such as the TB Vaccine Accelerator Council, aimed at expanding access to new TB vaccines.

As Nigeria marks the 2026 World TB Day under the theme, “Yes, we can end TB: led by the Federal Ministry of Health and powered by communities,” health officials have called for sustained commitment to tackling the disease.

WHO’s Cluster Lead for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control in Nigeria, Mya Ngon, said TB continues to claim lives largely due to delayed diagnosis and gaps in access to care, stressing the need to intensify efforts to find missing cases and expand equitable access to services.

Health authorities also urged individuals experiencing a persistent cough lasting two weeks or more to seek testing promptly, noting that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

While progress has been recorded, stakeholders say sustained investment, strong government leadership, and continued collaboration with partners will be critical to detecting every case, completing treatment, and ending tuberculosis as a public health threat in Nigeria.

– As Dean urges integrity, excellence in practice

The Registrar of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, has inducted 171 graduates of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin (UNIBEN), who completed their studies in the 2024/2025 academic session.

Speaking shortly before leading the graduands in the oath-taking ceremony, Ahmed charged them to uphold high ethical standards and embrace continuous professional development as they begin their careers. He described the induction as a critical requirement under the PCN Act for registration as pharmacists, noting that the graduates had only completed the first phase of their professional training.

“As you take the oath today and become inducted members of the pharmacy profession, I urge you to maintain high ethical standards and leadership qualities, and endeavour to be worthy professionals in the pursuit of excellence in the provision of quality pharmaceutical services,” he said.

The registrar stressed that the next phase of training, the mandatory one-year internship, must be undertaken in accredited centres. He urged the inductees to treat the internship programme with utmost seriousness, as it forms the foundation for future professional competence.

According to him, the internship will prepare the graduates for the Pre-registration Examination for Pharmacists, a qualifying assessment conducted twice yearly. “You are advised to take your internship training seriously, as the examination is based primarily on the experiences acquired during the training,” he said.

Ahmed also urged the graduands to familiarise themselves with the profession’s code of ethics, which outlines responsibilities to patients, colleagues, other healthcare professionals, employers, and the public.

He warned against professional misconduct, noting that the council would not hesitate to invoke disciplinary measures provided under the law.

“The council frowns on professional misconduct in its entirety. Refrain from any act of misconduct, as this will be treated with all the seriousness it deserves,” he added.

Highlighting career prospects, the registrar said Pharmacy offers diverse opportunities in industry, hospitals, community practice, academia, research, administration, and even non-traditional fields such as information technology and journalism.

He further emphasised the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment marked by technological advancement, emerging diseases, drug resistance, and increasingly complex treatment challenges.

Ahmed noted that the council’s Continuing Professional Development programme was designed to ensure pharmacists remain relevant and competent, in line with global best practices and directives of the Federal Ministry of Health.

He also cautioned against the “register-and-go syndrome,” urging the inductees to remain committed to professional excellence and integrity throughout their careers.

“As frontline health workers, you are expected to offer professional advice on drug use and collaborate with other healthcare professionals, especially during public health emergencies,” he said.

The registrar congratulated the graduates, commending their resilience and the support of their parents and guardians, and expressed optimism that they would contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s healthcare system.

In his goodwill message, the Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin, Prof. Ighodaro Igbe, charged the graduands to uphold integrity, compassion, and professionalism in their careers.

He described the induction ceremony as a formal declaration by PCN that the university had fulfilled its mandate in training the graduands, noting that it also signified their commitment to the ethics and responsibilities of the profession.

The dean said the faculty has sustained a strong reputation for producing competent pharmacists who have excelled in academia, hospital practice, industry, and public service, as he commended the 171 graduands, describing them as worthy in character and learning. He urged them to remain good ambassadors of the institution.

“As you go forth, let integrity guide your conduct, compassion define your service, and excellence distinguish your practice. Always remember that every medicine you handle represents trust from patients, colleagues, and society at large,” he said.

Igbe also advised them to remain humble in success and resilient in failure.

“When you succeed, do not let success get into your head, and when you fail, do not let failure get to your heart,” he added.

The dean acknowledged the support of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, SAN, praising his leadership and commitment to academic excellence and research development. He referenced recent developments in the faculty, particularly the approval by the university senate for the establishment of the Institute of Herbal and Complementary Medicine, aimed at promoting research, capacity building, and specialised training in line with national health priorities.

He noted that the faculty has also sustained its leadership in pharmaceutical education as one of the pioneers of the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) programme in Nigeria.

He urged the newly inducted pharmacists to make meaningful contributions to society and to uphold the values of the profession.

The Federal Government has renewed its push to improve oral healthcare delivery nationwide, unveiling an ambitious plan to reach no fewer than three million Nigerians with oral health education and services by 2026. The pledge was reiterated in Abuja during activities marking the 2026 World Oral Health Day, convened by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and attended by a broad coalition of stakeholders, including health professionals, educators, development partners, and industry representatives.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Health, Dr Adekunle Salako, represented by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr Abisola Adegoke, underscored the often-overlooked importance of oral health within the broader public health framework. He noted that untreated oral conditions continue to undermine children’s learning outcomes and reduce adult productivity, stressing that a healthy population is foundational to national development. According to him, ongoing government interventions are focused on integrating oral healthcare into primary health systems, widening access to affordable dental services, and promoting preventive practices at the grassroots level.

Salako explained that community health workers are being equipped to detect and refer severe oral conditions such as noma and cleft lip and palate, while school-based initiatives and community outreach programmes are being intensified to improve awareness and hygiene practices. In addition, a revised national oral health policy has been introduced to strengthen coordination around prevention, treatment, and public education.

The minister further highlighted strategic collaborations with global and local partners, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), Noma Aids Nigeria Initiative, and Médecins Sans Frontières, aimed at tackling neglected oral diseases and expanding service delivery. He also disclosed the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Colgate to support the training of community health extension workers and deepen oral health education in schools and communities.

Commending the Nigerian Dental Association, the Minister noted that its outreach efforts had reached over 2.4 million Nigerians across more than 20 states and the Federal Capital Territory in the past year. Building on this momentum, he said the government’s target is to scale up coverage to at least three million people by 2026.

He emphasised that improving oral health outcomes requires collective effort, calling on parents, teachers, and healthcare providers to champion simple preventive measures such as regular brushing with fluoride toothpaste, reduced sugar consumption, and routine dental check-ups.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, described World Oral Health Day as a vital platform for reinforcing the link between oral health and overall well-being. She observed that many oral conditions are preventable but frequently neglected until they become severe and expensive to treat, urging Nigerians to embrace early preventive habits.

Kachollom, who was represented at the event, stressed the importance of early education in shaping lifelong healthy behaviours and commended the role of teachers and parents in encouraging children’s participation. She also acknowledged the contributions of development partners, professional bodies, and private sector players, noting that sustained collaboration remains key to improving oral health outcomes nationwide.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, highlighted the broader quality-of-life implications of oral health, pointing out that common conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease are largely preventable. Represented by Dr Uchenna Ekwenube, he encouraged students to adopt good oral hygiene practices and serve as ambassadors of healthy living within their communities.

The event featured a range of activities, including health talks, live demonstrations on proper oral hygiene, and an oratorical contest involving eight secondary schools. Army Day Secondary School, Abuja, emerged winner of the competition, receiving a cash prize of N100,000, while Command Secondary School, Abuja, secured the first runner-up position with N80,000. The second runner-up received N50,000, with other participating schools awarded consolation prizes.

‎Four decades after his passing, the family of late Pharm. Solomon Adegboyega Afon, founder of Safco Chemist Limited, Benin, Edo State, has celebrated his enduring legacy in community pharmacy and pharmaceutical distribution, describing his life as one defined by vision, integrity, and service.

‎Established in 1976, Safco Chemist Limited was actively involved in retail, wholesale, and the distribution of pharmaceutical products, serving the healthcare needs of its host community at a time when structured drug supply systems were still developing in Nigeria

The company earned a reputation for reliability and professionalism under the leadership of its founder.

‎Pharm. Afon, a 1973 graduate of the then University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, was widely regarded by peers as a forward-thinking pharmacist committed to expanding access to quality medicines.

‎Following his death in 1986, Safco Chemist Limited continued operations under new management led by his son, Pharm. Adebayo Afon, a University of Benin Pharmacy graduate, sustaining its presence in the pharmaceutical space for nearly two decades before it was eventually liquidated in 2004.

‎Despite the company’s closure, the values and vision of its founder have continued to resonate through his children, who have remained active in the pharmaceutical sector.

‎Speaking on behalf of the family, Pharm. Bayo Afon, managing director/chief executive officer of Afonchies Pharmacy and Safco Mega Solutions, said their father’s legacy continues to shape their professional and personal pursuits.

‎“Our father built more than a business; he built a legacy anchored on service, discipline, and integrity,” he said. “Forty years after his passing, those values remain the foundation of everything we do.”

‎He explained that Afonchies Pharmacy, which he described as a direct offshoot of the defunct Safco Chemist Limited, was established to continue the vision of patient-centred care, while Safco Mega Solutions focuses on wholesale pharmaceutical distribution to meet growing healthcare demands.

‎“Though Safco Chemist is no longer in existence, its spirit lives on through what we are building today. We see ourselves as continuing a journey that started in 1976,” he added.

‎Industry observers, who doesn’t want his name in print note that the story of Safco Chemist Limited reflects both the growth and challenges of indigenous pharmaceutical enterprises in Nigeria, while underscoring the importance of legacy and continuity in the profession.

‎As family members, friends, and colleagues mark the 40th anniversary of his passing, Pharm. Solomon Adegboyega Afon is remembered not only as a pioneer in his field but as a man whose ideals continue to inspire a new generation of pharmacists.

Nestlé Nigeria Plc, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Organised Private Sector in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (OPS-WASH), has launched a National Water Quality Advocacy Handbook to promote safe water practices and protect public health.

The handbook was unveiled at the Annual Water Quality Conference held in Abuja, marking a key milestone in Nestlé Nigeria’s national water quality advocacy campaign.

Designed to simplify technical water safety concepts, the handbook provides practical guidance for households, communities, policymakers and industry stakeholders on safeguarding water quality. It outlines steps for identifying contamination risks, ensuring safe water handling and storage, adopting household treatment methods, and protecting water sources at the community level.

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, emphasised the need for sustained awareness and education to improve water quality outcomes across the country. He noted that equipping individuals and communities with the right knowledge is critical to promoting safe practices and protecting public health.

Also speaking, Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Victoria Uwadoka, reiterated the company’s commitment to water stewardship, noting that access to safe water is essential for health, economic development and sustainable livelihoods.

She added that the initiative reflects Nestlé’s broader commitment to protecting shared water resources and improving access to safe water beyond its operations.

On his part, National Coordinator of OPS-WASH, Dr Nicholas Igwe, stressed the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing water and sanitation challenges. He noted that the handbook would strengthen community awareness, support education efforts and help identify gaps requiring technical and financial intervention.

The organisers disclosed that the handbook would be distributed through digital platforms and physical channels, including government and community partners such as the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agencies (RUWASSA). A nationwide grassroots sensitisation campaign is also planned to drive adoption of safe water practices.

They urged stakeholders and communities to utilise the resource as part of efforts to make water safety a national priority.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has cautioned against proposed amendments to pharmacy legislation, warning that such changes could weaken regulatory independence and pose serious risks to public health.

The warning was issued on Tuesday by PSN President, Pharm. Tanko Ayuba, during the opening of the 2026 PSN Colloquium held at the Banquet Hall in Yola.

Ayuba emphasised the need to sustain a strong and independent Pharmacists Council of Nigeria Governing Council, describing it as vital for effective professional oversight, enforcement of discipline, and safeguarding the quality and safety of pharmaceutical services nationwide.

He warned that the proposed legislative amendments could erode the autonomy of pharmacy practice, thereby exposing Nigerians to unsafe practices and the activities of unlicensed operators.

“Pharmacy remains the only health profession on the Exclusive Legislative List. Any interference in its regulation puts public health at risk,” he stated.

Providing historical context, Ayuba traced the regulation of pharmacy practice in Nigeria to as far back as 1878, noting that the existing Pharmacists Act of 1964 has sustained professional standards and autonomy for over six decades. According to him, altering this framework could trigger a surge in unregistered pharmaceutical outlets and compromise adherence to Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP).

The PSN President called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to suspend action on the amendment bills, citing pending court cases on the matter.

“The rule of law must prevail. Public health and patient safety should not be jeopardised,” he added.

The society also lauded the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, for advancing healthcare delivery in the state.

PSN highlighted key interventions by the administration, including the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), creation of a pharmacy consultancy cadre within the civil service, and capacity-building programmes for pharmacy technicians.

Other notable projects include the establishment of a modern laboratory complex, development of health infrastructure across local government areas, a specialised infectious disease centre, upgraded surgical theatres, a dialysis facility providing free services, and enhanced obstetrics and gynaecology units.

As part of its long-term vision, the PSN announced the launch of its Centenary Endowment Fund aimed at strengthening pharmacy education and supporting health research.

The society also disclosed plans to institute the Umaru Fintiri Award for Innovation in Pharmacy Practice, with the inaugural presentation scheduled for the 2027 centenary celebrations.

Ayuba reaffirmed the society’s commitment to upholding professional standards and protecting public health.

“Our partnership with the Adamawa State Government will continue to set benchmarks in pharmacy practice and healthcare delivery. We remain resolute in ensuring that professionalism and patient safety are never compromised,” he said.

In a strategic effort to strengthen pharmaceutical distribution and expand access to quality medicines in Nigeria, Troop Pharmaceuticals has partnered with New Heights Pharma Ltd for the nationwide distribution of its flagship product, Troop-C™.

The agreement, formalised on 1 April, 2026, at the indoor hall of New Heights Pharma Ltd, appoints NHP Healthcare, a subsidiary of the company, as the exclusive distributor of Troop-C™ across the country.

Speaking at the event, the Managing Director/CEO of New Heights Pharma Ltd and Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Wholesalers and Distributors Association of Nigeria (PWDAN), Pharm. Ogheneochuko Omaruaye, described the partnership as a major boost for the availability of trusted, locally manufactured medicines.

He underscored the enduring relevance of Troop-C™, noting that its resilience over the years reflects strong consumer confidence and product quality.

“This is a product that has been available for over 20 years and has survived various economic downturns. That speaks to the strength of the product. With the distribution capacity we have built, we are confident of taking it to the nooks and crannies of the country,” he said.

Omaruaye further noted that the collaboration reflects a practical response to longstanding distribution challenges within Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.

“Distribution in Nigeria is capital intensive. Through collaboration, we are able to pool resources, reduce costs, and allow each party to focus on its core strengths. This ultimately benefits the end users,” he added.

On her part, the Managing Director of Troop Pharmaceuticals, Prof. (Pharm.) Chizomam Emeje, said the partnership aligns with efforts to promote a more structured and efficient drug distribution system in the country.

She raised concerns over the continued circulation of counterfeit medicines, stressing that stronger distribution frameworks remain critical to safeguarding public health.

Emeje expressed optimism that the collaboration would significantly widen access to Troop-C™, particularly in underserved areas, while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.

She added that Troop-C™ tablets, available in 100mg strength and packaged in 100-tablet packs, can be chewed or swallowed, offering flexibility and ease of use for consumers.

Also speaking, Mr Simon Emmanuel, emphasised the critical role of logistics in securing the pharmaceutical supply chain.

According to him, efficient logistics systems are essential to ensuring the seamless movement of medicines from manufacturers to end users, thereby improving access and preserving product integrity nationwide.

Stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector have called for strengthened hospital and administrative pharmacy systems to improve efficient and safe drug delivery across public health facilities in Lagos State.

The call was made at a two-day summit for Heads of Pharmacy Units in the Lagos State Public Service held recently at Orchid Hotel, Lekki, with the theme, “Strengthening Hospital and Administrative Pharmacy Practice for Efficient Pharmaceutical Care Delivery in Lagos State.”

Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr (Mrs) Kemi Ogunyemi, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr Oluwatoni Adeyemi, described the gathering as timely amid growing demand for patient-centred healthcare.

Ogunyemi commended pharmacists across the state for their dedication, noting that pharmaceutical services remain central to achieving safe and efficient healthcare delivery.

She said, “This retreat comes at a critical time when the demand for safe, efficient and patient-centred healthcare continues to grow. The role of pharmacists remains central to achieving these goals.”

The Special Adviser emphasised that essential medicines constitute a key building block of any health system, adding that strengthening pharmaceutical services would enhance patient safety and improve health outcomes.

She further noted that Lagos health facilities cater not only to residents but also patients from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, underscoring the far-reaching impact of pharmacists’ work.

Ogunyemi urged participants to leverage the summit for knowledge sharing, innovation and collaboration, encouraging them to co-create practical solutions to challenges facing pharmaceutical practice.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr Dayo Lajide, charged participants to embrace excellence, continuous learning and self-development in their professional journey.

Lajide stressed the importance of diligence and professionalism, noting that civil servants must strive to give their best regardless of recognition or supervision.

She said, “Wherever you find yourself, put in your best. Do not be concerned about who is watching. Your diligence and excellence will speak for you.”

The Permanent Secretary also highlighted the need for capacity building, urging pharmacists to take advantage of digital learning platforms and evolving technologies such as artificial intelligence.

She further underscored the importance of mentoring younger professionals and documenting institutional processes to ensure continuity in the civil service.

On patient care, Lajide emphasised the critical role of pharmacists in counselling patients, particularly on proper medication use to combat issues such as antimicrobial resistance.

Delivering the keynote address, Professor Ayotunde Adebayo of the Faculty of Education, University of Lagos, described administrative pharmacy as a strategic driver of healthcare delivery beyond drug dispensing.

Adebayo explained that effective pharmacy administration rests on key pillars including human resources, finance, supply chain management and legal compliance.

He warned that poor administrative systems could lead to drug stockouts, increased costs, patient harm and regulatory sanctions, stressing the need for robust governance structures.

The keynote speaker advocated adoption of digital systems such as hospital information systems, e-prescribing and inventory management tools to improve efficiency and accountability.

He added that Lagos must prepare for future trends including artificial intelligence, blockchain and local drug manufacturing to meet the demands of its growing population.

In a goodwill message, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Dr Cecilia Mabogunje, represented by the Director Pharmaceutical Services, Health Service Commission, Pharm. Modupe Bakare, said the summit was a deliberate intervention to strengthen pharmaceutical systems.

Mabogunje noted that the retreat provided an opportunity to identify gaps, align best practices and develop strategies for improved pharmaceutical care delivery across the state.

Similarly, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Ibrahim Mustafa, represented by the Director Pharmaceutical Services, Pharm. Shakirat Adeosun, highlighted the importance of strong pharmaceutical systems in ensuring access to safe and affordable medicines at the grassroots.

Mustafa said initiatives such as the Drug Revolving Fund and strengthened supply chains have improved access to essential medicines, adding that pharmacists now play broader roles in policy, data management and digital health integration.

Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Lagos Health District III, Dr Monsurat Adeleke, represented by the Director Pharmaceitical Services, Lagos Health District III, Pharm. Ololade Oloyede, described the summit as timely in addressing the evolving role of pharmacists in healthcare delivery.

Adeleke emphasised that strengthening administrative and hospital pharmacy practice would enhance service delivery, regulatory compliance and patient outcomes.

In his contribution, the Director, Lagos State Zonal Office of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Dr Taiwo Filusi, represented by Pharm. Samuel Onoja, commended the Ministry of Health for organising the summit.

Filusi noted that such engagements promote professional development, harmonisation of best practices and improved pharmaceutical services across health institutions.

Earlier in her welcome address, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Pharm. (Mrs.) Olawale Poluyi, described the summit as a strategic engagement to reposition pharmaceutical practice.

Poluyi noted that pharmacists must assume stronger leadership roles in governance, patient safety, supply chain efficiency and rational medicine use to improve health outcomes.

She urged participants to maximise the opportunity for experience sharing and collaboration, stressing that outcomes from the summit should translate into measurable improvements in service delivery.

In her closing remarks, the Director Pharmaceutical Services, Lagos State Health Service Commission, Pharm. Modupe Bakare appreciated participants and organisers, noting that the summit provided practical insights that would impact service delivery.

She urged participants to remain interactive and committed to applying lessons learned at their various duty posts, expressing optimism that the outcomes would strengthen pharmaceutical care delivery in Lagos State.

Professor of Global Health Education and Research Leadership at the Medical Research Council (MRC), The Gambia, Prof. Assan Jaye, has called on African governments to prioritise funding for health research to ensure sustainability.

Jaye made the call in Abuja at a high-level workshop on Pan-African Health and Clinical Trials Data Sharing, adding that it would also maximise the continent’s vast data resources.

The workshop was organised by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in collaboration with MRC Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM).

The event was alongside the West African Network of Excellence for Tuberculosis, AIDS and Malaria (WANETAM).

He said that while Africa had generated substantial high-quality data on diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria and HIV, the continent still relied heavily on external funding for research and infrastructure development.

According to him, the dependence poses a threat to sustainability, especially as international funders increasingly expect greater domestic investment from African governments.

“African governments are still reticent in allocating resources for research, and this has been a long-standing issue.

“We must begin to prioritise research funding locally to sustain the infrastructure and capacity we have built over time,” he said.

Jaye explained that the workshop was convened to expand an existing regional data repository into a pan-African platform that would enable better data sharing, collaboration and innovation in health research.

He said the Health Data Research Platform for West Africa was initially developed in response to rising cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and malaria drug resistance across the region.

He noted that the platform had since grown into a critical repository for diverse datasets, including HIV mutations and emerging disease patterns, which could inform policy and improve health outcomes.

“Data is now central to everything we do, including the use of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.

“However, for Africa to benefit, we must own, understand and control our data,” he said.

Jaye added that the platform would support secondary data analysis by researchers, enhance collaboration and ultimately translate research findings into improved healthcare delivery.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts to deploy innovative tools, including Artificial Intelligence for tuberculosis diagnosis using X-ray imaging, as well as language models for interpreting clinical data.

Also speaking, Prof. Toyin Togun of LSHTM, described Nigeria as central to any regional or continental health intervention due to its population size and disease burden.

Togun said Nigeria’s leadership role in tackling tuberculosis, malaria and other infectious diseases made it a strategic hub for advancing data-driven health research in West Africa.

“Nigeria is crucial to any intervention in Africa because of its population, diversity and the scale of its public health challenges.

“We must ensure that Nigeria is fully integrated into any pan-African data-sharing initiative,” he said.

He, however, identified poor data quality, inadequate standardisation, and weak infrastructure as major challenges to effective data collection, storage and dissemination.

According to him, ensuring high-quality, representative data and investing in secure storage systems and skilled personnel are essential for maximising the value of health data

Togun said participants at the workshop were working towards an “Abuja Declaration” that would outline commitments by researchers and institutions across more than 12 West African countries to strengthen data sharing and research collaboration.

Prof. Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, Director of the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, underscored the need for greater awareness among policymakers on the importance of data sharing.

She said effective cross-border collaboration depended on harmonised data governance policies and a shared understanding of the value of data in addressing common health challenges.

Drawing lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and Ebola outbreaks, Yeboah-Manu said rapid data sharing had been critical to the development of vaccines, diagnostics and response strategies.

“We need to understand that diseases do not respect borders, and without data, we cannot strategise effectively to combat them,” she said.

She emphasised that although large volumes of health data existed across Africa, they were often fragmented and underutilised, limiting their impact on research and policy.

Yeboah-Manu also highlighted the critical role of women in health research, particularly in data collection and clinical trials, and called for increased investment in building the capacity of female scientists.

In her remarks, Michelle Nderu, an officer with the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), described the initiative as timely and essential for strengthening collaboration across institutions.

Nderu said consolidating fragmented datasets into a trusted and accessible platform would enhance research capacity and inform evidence-based health policies across the continent.

She emphasised that improved data sharing would not only foster trust among institutions but also accelerated progress in clinical research and healthcare delivery.

The workshop brought together researchers, policymakers and development partners to develop a roadmap for a unified African health data repository, with a focus on governance, accessibility and sustainability.

Participants expressed optimism that stronger collaboration and increased domestic investment would position Africa to better harness its data to improve health outcomes and scientific advancement. (NAN)

Pandemics are inevitable, and nations must be ready to respond swiftly, says Dr Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare.

Salako said this at the Public Health Symposium on “Lessons on Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Insights from China and Nigeria” on Monday in Abuja.

The minister warned:” The next pandemic is not a matter of if but when,” stressing the importance of coordinated, equitable, and innovative preparedness.

He noted that COVID-19, which claimed over seven million lives worldwide, exposed vulnerabilities in global health systems while demonstrating the value of collaboration and resilience.

He highlighted Nigeria’s progress in strengthening its health security landscape.

These, he said, included the digitalisation of infectious disease surveillance with SORMAS, training of health workers, and expanded diagnostic infrastructure with over 100 public health laboratories.

Others, he said, were the establishment of infectious disease centres and public health emergency operation centres in all states and the Federal Capital Territory.

These measures, he said, had helped improve Nigeria’s technical evaluation score from 39 per cent in 2017 to 54 per cent in 2023.

Africa’s media insights

He also noted China’s rapid and disciplined response to COVID-19, emphasising the importance of technology integration and community mobilisation.

“Mutual learning between Nigeria and China is critical to building resilient systems capable of safeguarding citizens and optimising global actions against future health emergencies,” he said.

Under President Bola Tinubu, he said that health security was prioritised as the fourth pillar of the Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.

“State-level preparedness is being strengthened through the 7-1-7 target and the SITAware Transition Project, while the One Health approach ensures coordinated attention to human, animal, and environmental health.

“Nigeria is also engaged in the WHO pandemic agreement negotiations, reflecting its commitment to multilateral cooperation,” he said.

He stressed that pandemic preparedness required a whole-of-society approach, involving governments, the private sector, communities, researchers, and international partners.

He urged stakeholders to focus on actionable policies, partnerships and innovations to ensure global readiness and equity.

“Let us work together across borders and sectors to ensure full readiness for the next pandemic, leaving no one behind,” he said.

The event marked a strategic shift toward a self-reliant, industrialised healthcare system in Nigeria through international partnerships, local production, and strengthened health security.

(NAN)

The Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency is leading efforts, with support from UNICEF, to increase immunisation coverage across the state.

The Executive Secretary of the agency, Dr Abdulrahama Shuaibu, disclosed this in an interview with newsmen on Monday, after an immunisation review meeting.

Shuaibu said that the agency had stepped up advocacy and community outreach, working with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and the media to encourage parents to take their children for vaccination.

According to him, vaccination teams, chosen from within the local communities, receive full training and daily refresher sessions to ensure high-quality service delivery.

On the issue of resistance, Shuaibu assured parents that the agency and development partnets would not leave any stone unturned in ensuring every child was fully immunised.

Dr Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, said engagement and grassroots mobilisation had significantly improved awareness.

Rafique said traditional rulers and emirs were actively supporting the campaign by hosting launch events in their palaces.

“This involvement is important because it helps the campaign reach more people and work better,” she said.

According to her, UNICEF has provided more than 965,000 polio vaccine doses, which have been safely delivered and managed across all local government areas.

She noted that the campaign had strong support from all stakeholders

“The state government has ensured proper storage, handling, and delivery to field teams.

“The campaign is targeting over 700,000 children, with daily reports showing that more than 60 per cent of targets are being met, though final figures will only be confirmed after the campaign ends.

She, however, stated that the major focus was on the more than 50,000 zero-dose children who had never received any vaccination.

“Intensified efforts are underway to ensure none are left behind,” she added.

The UNICEF scribe expressed optimism that with the government and its partners, backed by strong leadership, community ownership, and sustained collaboration, Gombe State was on track to achieve significant results in the remaining three days of the five-day campaign.

The campaign is targeting more than 900,000 children between the ages of 0–59 months

As part of efforts to sustain growth and deepen its market presence, the foremost Nigerian pharmaceutical company, May & Baker PLC has set a revenue target of N42.3 billion for 2026.

The company disclosed at the 2026 Customer Forum held on Friday, 27 March, 2026, in Lagos, where the managing director, Pharm. Patrick Ajah also reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to the well-being of Nigerians through the provision of quality medicines.

Addressing distributors at the event, Pharm. Ajah acknowledged the difficult economic climate in Nigeria but commended partners for their continued support, which he said contributed to the company’s strong performance in the past year.

“We know how challenging the economic environment has been, but because of your partnership, May & Baker did well last year. Our success is from your success. If you succeed, we succeed” Pharm. Ajah told the distributors.

He noted that despite prevailing headwinds, the company remains focused on growth, stressing that rising targets reflect its ambition to expand operations and improve performance. He said, “The target is always going up because we believe we should keep progressing. I also believe that your business is going to be moving forward”.

Speaking with journalists on the importance of the forum, Pharm. Ajah explained that the annual customer forum serves as a platform to reward top-performing distributors and obtain market feedback to guide business strategy.

“We invite our top-performing distributors to appreciate them and also get feedback. They are in the market; they have the ears of the people. That information helps us to restructure our strategy to reach Nigerians better”, Pharm. Ajah told journalists.

The company’s managing director specifically noted that May and Baker recorded a 32 per cent growth in the last financial year, attributing the performance to strong distributor networks and increased demand for its products. He said, “We grew by 32 per cent last year. We are one of the few companies growing in this kind of economy. It means our products are doing well and our distributors are also growing their businesses”, he said.

Reiterating the company’s values, he stressed that May & Baker prioritises not only its distributors but also the end-users of its products. He said, “We care about our distributors, our customers, and the people who use our products. We care a lot about Nigerians. Quality is what we focus on”.

He added that strengthening distributor networks across the country also helps combat the proliferation of counterfeit medicines, noting that the company relies on its partners to identify and report fake products.

On challenges, Ajah cited rising production costs driven by foreign exchange volatility, logistics constraints, and insecurity. He also raised concerns over the impact of global developments on raw material prices.

He specifically decried the impact of the ongoing Iran-Israel/US war, saying the price of paracetamol raw material has almost doubled within weeks from about $2.90 per kg to as high as $5.90 due to global disruptions.

Despite the challenges, he said the company is investing in logistics, including the acquisition of new trucks, and expanding its footprint, particularly in northern Nigeria, through targeted advertising campaigns.

Pharm. Ajah also stated the need for company owners, especially the distributors, to have succession plan initiatives to ensure business continuity and sustainability. “We want their businesses to succeed. Succession planning is very important. At some point, people will retire, and we want to ensure their businesses outlive them”, Pharm. Ajah enthused.

Earlier, the Head of Sales, Pharma Sales & Marketing, Pharm. Chigozie Maduneme said the company recorded N33.9 billion in revenue in 2025, representing a 32.48 per cent growth and 88.61 per cent achievement of its target.

Pharm. Maduneme also noted that the company plans to invest over N1.16 billion in marketing and promotional activities in 2026, to boost product visibility and sales nationwide.

In his remarks, the Brand Manager, Mr David Onipe, reiterated the company’s commitment to ensuring access to quality medicines, stating that efforts are ongoing to meet the healthcare needs of Nigerians.

While addressing the distributors at the forum, a resource person, Dr Sophia Abiri-Franklin, charged them to have a succession plan for their business. He stated that all company owners need to put proper structure and system in place to ensure that their business outlives them.

According to her, over 70 per cent of small and medium enterprises don’t have succession plans, and the majority of family businesses don’t survive the transition of the children.

The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding distributors for their performance in 2025, with Chuphil Pharmacy emerging as the overall best distributor.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has projected a mix of dust haze and sunshine across the country from Monday through Wednesday.

In its weather outlook released Sunday in Abuja, NiMet said northern states will experience moderate dust haze on Monday, particularly in Kebbi and Kano, with horizontal visibility expected to range between two and five kilometres. Other parts of the region are likely to see generally sunny and hazy conditions.

For the central region, including the Federal Capital Territory and Niger State, moderate dust haze is also anticipated, while the rest of the zone will remain largely sunny with hazy skies.

In the southern region, residents can expect sunny conditions with intermittent cloud cover. NiMet noted the likelihood of afternoon and evening thunderstorms accompanied by light rainfall in parts of Bayelsa, Lagos, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.

On Tuesday, a slight dust haze is forecast to persist over Kano and Kebbi, while the broader northern region continues under sunny and hazy skies. The central states are expected to maintain similar conditions, with isolated thunderstorms possible in parts of Plateau State later in the day.=

Southern states, according to the agency, will see a continuation of sunny skies with cloud patches, alongside thunderstorms and light rains in areas including Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Lagos, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.

By Wednesday, both northern and central regions are expected to remain predominantly sunny and hazy. In the South, however, cloud build-up may trigger afternoon or evening thunderstorms, with light rainfall likely in Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Edo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Lagos, Delta, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.

NiMet cautioned that dust particles will remain suspended in the atmosphere during the period, advising individuals—especially those with respiratory conditions such as asthma—to take necessary precautions. Motorists were also urged to drive carefully during rainfall, while airline operators were advised to obtain location-specific weather reports for safe flight planning.

The agency encouraged the public to stay updated through its official channels. (NAN)

The Lagos State Branch of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has urged the federal and Lagos state governments to take urgent action against the proliferation of fake, unwholesome, and substandard drugs in Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The call was made by the Chairman of ACPN Lagos, Pharm. Tolulope Ajayi, during the association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at the 10 Degrees Events Centre, Oregun, Lagos.

Addressing the community pharmacists in the State, Ajayi expressed deep concern over the current state of drug distribution in Lagos and across the country. He highlighted that the Federal Task Force for counterfeit and substandard drugs, which has been approved by the Federal Ministry of Health, is yet to be inaugurated in Lagos State, despite many other states having activated the body.

“The time to act is now,” Ajayi emphasised. “This task force is critical to complement the efforts of NAFDAC and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) in ensuring that medicines circulating in our communities are genuine and safe. The integrity of our drug distribution system directly impacts the quality of healthcare outcomes and the nation’s progress toward Universal Health Coverage.”

Ajayi also stressed the urgent need for the establishment of a Drug Management Agency managed by pharmacists, noting that such an agency would provide oversight and professional management of Nigeria’s medicine supply chain.

He singled out the need for the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) to expedite the construction of the Lagos Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) within the set timelines, noting that it represents the best available alternative to the chaotic open drug markets where medicines are currently exposed to weather elements and handled unethically. “While construction is ongoing, it is imperative that the project be completed promptly to ensure safe and ethical pharmaceutical practice in Lagos,” he said.

The ACPN Lagos chairman further criticised what he described as preferential treatment of certain professionals within the health sector, calling instead for a patient-centred approach to healthcare delivery. He argued that a stronger focus on patient care, supported by adequate manpower and facilities at all levels of specialisation and critical care, is essential to achieving Universal Health Coverage and improving Nigeria’s global healthcare ranking.

Ajayi also used the AGM platform to highlight the achievements of ACPN Lagos under the current administration, including the acquisition of a permanent site at Ketu-Alapere, development of a robust digital platform for member engagement, and efforts to strengthen capacity building through continuing education, certifications, and mapping of all community pharmacy facilities in the state.

“Lagos ACPN is committed to driving change and supporting regulators and policymakers to sanitise our drug distribution system,” Ajayi concluded. “We are men of honor, and we will continue to advocate for safe, ethical, and professional pharmacy practice across Lagos and Nigeria.”

The AGM also re-elected the state executives, reaffirming their mandate to lead ACPN Lagos in achieving its objectives of growth, advocacy, and professional excellence.

A cross-section of the Lagos ACPN members at the AG

A cross-section of the Lagos ACPN executive members at the AGM

The Federal Government says it has committed 346 million dollars in co-financing in 2026 to support HIV, tuberculosis and malaria programmes.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, disclosed this at the national launch of Lenacapavir, a long-acting injectable for HIV prevention.

The launch was organised by the National AIDS, Viral Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Control Programme (NASCP) on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said the funding, approved by President Bola Tinubu, would be captured in the 2026 national budget to strengthen critical health interventions.

“In the context of this major bilateral funder, the co-financing for 2026 is almost 346 million dollars additional.

“Mr President has already directed the Budget Office of the Federation to ensure that it is captured in the 2026 budget,” Pate said.

He explained that the funding would cover commodity costs, laboratory surveillance, reagents, primary healthcare expansion and financial protection for Nigerians.

“That means that some of the commodity costs, the laboratory surveillance costs, the reagents, primary health care, expansion of financial protection should be included,” he said.

Pate said the move reflected Nigeria’s shift toward stronger domestic financing amid declining global health funding and changing international priorities.

“The global space is changing right in front of our eyes. Financing has become limited globally and constrained in many countries, including Nigeria.

“While we have had tremendous success over the last 25 years thanks to global partnerships, the headwinds we are facing in terms of the changing global landscape force us to think differently,” he said.

Pate emphasised the need for innovation and efficiency, noting that new tools like Lenacapavir would help Nigeria consolidate gains made in HIV, tuberculosis and malaria control.

He said the government was adopting a sector-wide approach to improve efficiency, reduce fragmentation and maximise limited resources across all levels of the health system.

He added that Nigeria’s long-term goal was to reduce dependence on external funding and increase domestic ownership of health programmes.

“By 2030, Nigeria should be able to put its own domestic resources toward priority diseases instead of relying on external grants,” Pate said.

He said that more than 90 per cent of Nigeria’s health spending was already domestically financed, while external funding remained largely catalytic.

Pate also called on civil society and stakeholders to ensure that allocated funds were not only approved but released and effectively utilised.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, said Nigeria had made significant progress in HIV response indicators in recent years.

Salako said 93 per cent of people living with HIV now know their status, while 99 per cent of those diagnosed were on sustained antiretroviral therapy.

He added that 95 per cent of those on treatment had achieved viral suppression, while Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission coverage increased from 33 per cent in 2023 to nearly 70 per cent in 2025.

“As we progress toward epidemic control, the need to intensify prevention strategies remains critical,” Salako said.

He described Lenacapavir as a transformative innovation that offered high efficacy, convenience and discretion, particularly for individuals facing adherence challenges.

He, however, emphasised that behavioural prevention remained essential.

“Abstinence or avoiding risky behaviours, being mutually faithful and consistent condom use remained key for HIV prevention.

“If you know you are at risk for HIV, get tested.

“If your result shows you are positive, ensure immediate commencement of treatment in a health facility with Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy.

“If you are negative, but at high risk, commence use of oral preventive medications or injections for PrEP such as Cabotegravir and the newly launched Lenacapavir under appropriate medical guidance,” he said.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ms Daju Kachollom, said the introduction of the drug marked a major advancement in HIV prevention in Nigeria.

“This long-acting injectable offers new hope, particularly for populations at higher risk,” Kachollom said.

She said the innovation aligned with Nigeria’s strategy to expand prevention options, reduce new infections and accelerate progress toward epidemic control.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Lenacapavir is a long-acting injectable antiretroviral administered twice yearly for HIV prevention among high-risk HIV-negative individuals.

Reports indicate that Anambra, Ebonyi, Gombe, Kwara, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Benue and the Federal Capital Territory have been selected for the initial rollout of the injection.

(NAN)

-As ACPN Holds 2026 Continuing Education Conference

Community pharmacists in Lagos State have been urged to embrace digital innovation, strengthen collaboration, and expand professional services to remain competitive and relevant in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving healthcare system.

The call was made at the 2026 Continuing Education Conference (CEC) of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Lagos State branch, held at the 10 Degrees Events Centre, Oregun, Lagos. The conference brought together pharmacists, regulators, and key stakeholders to discuss the future of community pharmacy practice and the need to adapt to emerging realities in healthcare delivery.

Speaking at the event with the theme “Advancing Community Pharmacy Practice through Technology, Collaboration and Expanded Services”, Chairman of the occasion, Pharm. (Sir) Ike Onyechi, chief executive officer of Alpha Pharmacy, urged community pharmacists to adopt technology in a gradual but deliberate manner, stressing that digital transformation is no longer optional in modern pharmacy practice.

He noted that proper documentation, digital record keeping, and efficient inventory management would not only improve service delivery but also strengthen the credibility of community pharmacies.

“Pharmacists who maintain accurate and verifiable records are better positioned to access funding opportunities, collaborate with other healthcare providers, and clearly demonstrate the value of their services within the healthcare system,” Onyechi said.

He further emphasised the importance of sourcing medicines strictly from approved and regulated channels, describing it as a critical step toward reducing the circulation of substandard and falsified medicines in the country.

Delivering the keynote address, Njide Ndili, Country Director of PharmAccess Nigeria and President of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, described community pharmacists as a vital but often under-recognised pillar of Nigeria’s healthcare system, noting that pharmacies are usually the first point of contact for many patients.

She encouraged pharmacists to integrate digital tools into their daily operations and to work more closely with other healthcare professionals, regulators, and institutions to improve patient outcomes.

“No single sector can solve healthcare challenges alone. Collaboration is essential if we want a stronger and more efficient health system,” Ndili said.

She added that as artificial intelligence and digital health solutions continue to reshape global healthcare, Nigeria must prioritise reliable local data generation through proper documentation, electronic records, and digitisation of healthcare processes.

In his welcome address, ACPN Lagos State Chairman, Pharm. Tolulope Ajayi, said the conference came at a critical time when healthcare delivery is increasingly driven by innovation, data management, and shared services.

He urged community pharmacists to deliberately scale up their practice through collaboration, adoption of technology, and expansion of pharmaceutical care services, while also taking advantage of professional development programmes and certifications to strengthen competence in clinical and public health roles.

Ajayi commended members of the association, partners, and the 2026 Conference Planning Committee, led by Pharm. (Dr) Evelyn Brambifa, for their commitment and hard work in organising the conference, noting that continuous education remains essential for pharmacists who intend to stay relevant in a fast-changing professional environment.

The highlight of the conference was the Masterclass sessions, during which participants agreed that the future of community pharmacy in Nigeria will largely depend on practitioners’ willingness to embrace modern technology, collaborate across professional boundaries, and position community pharmacies as key contributors to accessible, safe, and quality healthcare delivery.

By Segun Lufadeju

The state of your mind can influence the state of your health. Certain chemicals in the body, released by the brain, play a major role in determining your mood and how you feel. These chemicals – serotonin, dopamine, adrenaline and oxytocin – are known as neurotransmitters.

Understanding how these neurotransmitters work can help us see how they affect our well-being and how they can be naturally supported to improve overall health. The first of these chemicals to consider is serotonin.

Serotonin is a chemical released by the brain that helps regulate mood. It is responsible for feelings of happiness, well-being, and emotional stability. It also helps regulate the sleep cycle and other physiological processes, including appetite. In many ways, serotonin is an important “feel-good” chemical that contributes to a balanced emotional state.

When the body releases adequate amounts of serotonin, a person tends to feel emotionally stable, happy and calm. Energy levels and concentration may also improve. However, when serotonin levels are low, people may experience symptoms such as insomnia (difficulty sleeping), sadness, low self-esteem, reduced sexual desire, fatigue, memory problems and cravings for sweet foods. Low serotonin levels have also been linked to depression and anxiety.

Natural ways to boost serotonin

Psychologists and researchers suggest several natural ways to support the release of serotonin in the body, two of which are explained here.

Sunlight and vitamin D

Exposure to sunlight and adequate levels of vitamin D can help promote the release of serotonin. Spending time outdoors and surrounding yourself with nature can positively affect your state of mind, often creating a sense of calm and mental clarity.

A deficiency of vitamin D has been linked with depressive symptoms. Regular exposure to sunlight may therefore help reduce low mood and encourage the production of serotonin, often referred to as the body’s “happy hormone”. Psychologists also believe that sunlight can enhance positive emotions, improve alertness and increase energy levels.

Affectionate touch

Giving and receiving affectionate touch can also help increase serotonin levels. Psychologists note that simple physical contact, such as a warm handshake, a hug or other supportive gestures, can strengthen social bonds and promote emotional well-being.

Positive physical contact may help reduce stress and support the body’s immune system. Acts of kindness, building friendships and offering help to others can also contribute to improved emotional health and may stimulate the release of serotonin.

Natural ways to boost dopamine

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of satisfaction and pleasure. It acts as a mood booster, enhances motivation and improves attention and concentration.

Dopamine also helps regulate movement, supports learning and enables emotional responses. Low levels of dopamine have been associated with depression. When dopamine is released in large amounts, it produces feelings of reward and pleasure, encouraging people to repeat certain behaviours.

In contrast, low dopamine levels may lead to reduced motivation and diminished enthusiasm for activities that would normally be enjoyable. Dopamine levels are generally well-regulated within the nervous system, but certain lifestyle habits can influence them.

Both excessively low and excessively high levels of dopamine can create problems. Too little dopamine may contribute to some mental health conditions, while too much may lead to behaviours such as aggression, excessive competitiveness or poor impulse control. High dopamine levels have also been linked with addictive behaviours involving activities such as gambling, overeating, alcohol consumption or recreational drugs.

Maintaining a healthy balance of dopamine is therefore important.

Eat protein-rich foods

Proteins are made up of smaller units called amino acids. There are 23 amino acids, some produced by the body and others obtained from food.

One amino acid, tyrosine, plays a key role in the production of dopamine. Enzymes in the body convert tyrosine into dopamine, making adequate tyrosine intake important.

Tyrosine can also be produced from another amino acid called phenylalanine. Both tyrosine and phenylalanine are found naturally in protein-rich foods such as turkey, eggs, dairy products, soya and legumes.

Research suggests that increasing the intake of these amino acids may raise dopamine levels in the brain, which could support deeper thinking and improve memory. Conversely, when phenylalanine and tyrosine are removed from the diet, dopamine levels may decrease. However, scientists note that it remains unclear whether normal variations in protein intake significantly affect dopamine levels.

Consume velvet beans

Velvet beans, also known as Mucuna pruriens, naturally contain high levels of L-dopa, a precursor to dopamine. Studies indicate that consuming these beans may help increase dopamine levels, particularly in people with Parkinson’s disease, a movement disorder associated with low dopamine levels.

Research involving individuals with Parkinson’s disease has shown that consuming about 250 grams of cooked velvet beans can significantly raise dopamine levels and reduce symptoms within one to two hours after a meal.

Some studies also suggest that supplements derived from Mucuna pruriens may be more effective and longer-lasting than certain traditional Parkinson’s medications, with fewer side effects. However, velvet beans can be toxic in large quantities, so dosage recommendations should always be followed carefully. Anyone considering dietary changes or supplements should consult a medical professional first. (To be continued)

Segun Lufadeju is the author of three books focused on developing a healthy mind and discovering one’s true identity. He also conducts seminars based on his recent book, The New Identity, where he explores how identity shapes personal results and life outcomes. He is the host of Thirty-Five Plus, an outreach programme for people aged thirty-five and above. He can be reached for enquiries or book orders via: +234-703-2168-649 or by email at printstrats@gmail.com.

By Pharmacist Suzan Animashaun

Across Nigeria, infections that were once easily treatable are increasingly associated with prolonged illness, therapeutic failure, and mortality. This public health challenge is driven by antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which occurs when microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, no longer respond to standard antimicrobial therapies.

Community pharmacists, situated at the interface of human health, animal health, and environmental stewardship, play a pivotal role in mitigating antimicrobial misuse and resistance. As accessible healthcare providers, they frequently serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking treatment for infections, positioning them as key agents in promoting rational antimicrobial use. This responsibility aligns with the One Health framework, which emphasises the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. The emergence of AMR is closely associated with inappropriate antimicrobial use in healthcare, livestock management, and agricultural practices.

These roles support Nigeria’s National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, which prioritises antimicrobial stewardship, surveillance, infection prevention, and public awareness to control AMR across human, animal, and environmental domains.

The far-reaching consequences of AMR

AMR has profound implications for human, animal, and environmental health. In humans, resistance leads to increased morbidity and mortality, prolonged hospitalisation, elevated healthcare costs, and diminished trust in health services due to repeated treatment failures.

In animal populations, AMR compromises the management of infectious diseases in livestock and companion animals, leading to reduced productivity, increased animal morbidity, and threats to food security. The zoonotic transmission of resistant pathogens further amplifies public health risks.

The environmental burden of AMR is substantial. Resistant microorganisms and resistance genes persist in soil, water systems, and waste streams, creating reservoirs that facilitate the dissemination of resistance across ecosystems. These reservoirs contribute to the cyclical reintroduction of resistant pathogens into human and animal populations, complicating control efforts.

Roles of community pharmacists in combating AMR

1. Safeguarding human health

Community pharmacists safeguard human health by promoting appropriate antibiotic use through patient education on dosage, adherence, and timely referral to higher levels of care. For instance, studies in Akwa Ibom State demonstrated that pharmacists employing structured counselling and adherence protocols significantly reduced inappropriate antibiotic dispensing for self-limiting infections. Similarly, the Community Antimicrobial Stewardship (CAMS) pilot, integrating pharmacist training with quality improvement tools, yielded measurable improvements in rational dispensing practices and patient compliance.

2. Protecting animal health

Community pharmacists contribute to animal health by discouraging the misuse of antimicrobials in livestock and companion animals. They provide education to farmers and animal owners on the risks of inappropriate antimicrobial use, emphasise proper dosing and adherence, and explain withdrawal periods to prevent drug residues in food products.

Pharmacists also facilitate timely referral to veterinary services for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Evidence from Nigeria indicates that non-prescription antibiotics obtained from community outlets are often diverted for animal use; targeted training and awareness interventions have effectively reduced this practice and promoted responsible antimicrobial use in animals.

3. Preventing environmental contamination

Community pharmacists play a critical role in minimising environmental contamination by advocating for safe disposal of unused or expired medicines and reducing antimicrobial residues in ecosystems. Through medicine take-back programmes and patient counselling, they discourage improper disposal practices such as dumping antibiotics into household waste or water sources. They also report substandard or falsified medicines that may contribute to environmental pollution and the selection of resistant microorganisms.

4. Surveillance and data collection

Community pharmacists enhance AMR surveillance by providing dispensing data and identifying unusual trends in antimicrobial demand. The Integration of point-of-care diagnostic tools in community pharmacies supports rational antimicrobial use and generates valuable data for public health planning. Incorporating pharmacy-based data into national AMR surveillance systems strengthens early detection and response capabilities.

5. Leading public education

Community pharmacists are central to public education on AMR and responsible antimicrobial use. Through patient counselling, community outreach, school-based programs, and public health campaigns, pharmacists reduce unnecessary antimicrobial demand and correct misconceptions regarding their use. Community-based stewardship initiatives combining pharmacist training with public engagement have demonstrated significant improvements in patient behaviour and rational medicine use.

6.Promoting interprofessional collaboration

Community pharmacists foster interprofessional collaboration by engaging with physicians, veterinarians, environmental health officers, and public health authorities within the One Health framework. By establishing referral pathways, participating in multidisciplinary meetings, and contributing to AMR and One Health committees, pharmacists help harmonise stewardship efforts across human, animal, and environmental sectors. Such collaboration strengthens coordinated interventions and enhances the overall effectiveness of AMR control strategies.

Conclusion

Recognising and empowering community pharmacists is vital to Nigeria’s response to AMR. Strengthening pharmacist-led stewardship, integrating community pharmacy data into national surveillance, and supporting continuous professional development will enhance coordinated One Health action. The fight against superbugs is ongoing in Nigeria’s communities, with pharmacists at the forefront of protecting human, animal, and environmental health.

Suzan Animashaun  is a pharmacist and public health advocate with interests in pharmaceutical outcomes research and health policy.

Pharm. (Sir) Anthony Akhimien, former president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) and the African Pharmaceutical Forum (APF), has warned that the pharmacy profession in Nigeria is confronting an unprecedented threat not seen in over three decades.

Speaking during the recent ACPN IDEA Zone Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the HOB and HOC Event Centre, Shasha, Lagos, Akhimien alleged that certain government policies are indirectly empowering quacks, putting public safety at risk.

“The pharmacy emblem remains the only trusted symbol guiding the public to safe medicines,” he said, cautioning that failure to act decisively now could have lasting consequences for the profession and the healthcare system.

Akhimien stressed that Nigeria’s healthcare system must operate as a true multidisciplinary team, where pharmacists, laboratory scientists, nurses, and doctors all play critical roles.

“Healthcare delivery cannot succeed if policies favour only one group. Pharmacists make the medicines, laboratory scientists conduct tests, and nurses provide care, yet government structures often ignore these contributions,” he noted.

He also highlighted the growing control of pharmacy businesses by non-pharmacists, describing it as a direct threat to professional integrity and patient safety. He called on regulatory authorities to ensure fully constituted and transparent pharmacy council boards capable of enforcing inspections, sanctioning violators, and maintaining professional standards.

Illegal premises and weak monitoring remain persistent challenges. Akhimien urged swift government action to empower councils and professional associations to protect registered pharmacies and enforce compliance effectively.

Reflecting on decades of service, he advised young pharmacists to prioritise mentorship, professional discipline, and patient welfare over immediate financial gain. “The true legacy of a pharmacist is measured in lives saved and public trust, not just profit,” he said.

Akhimien also criticised the limited inclusion of pharmacists in critical government healthcare committees. Referring to a recent clinical investigation into medication errors, he noted that only one pharmacist was involved, while other essential stakeholders, including regulators and drug manufacturers, were absent. He emphasised that inclusive policymaking is vital for patient safety and effective healthcare delivery.

He however urged the policymakers to implement transparent, supportive policies for pharmacists nationwide, stressing that empowering the profession is essential for sustainable healthcare and public safety in Nigeria.