ACAPN seeks improved welfare for physiotherapists

By Muhammad Oladipupo Salaudeen

As one of the last sets of students who will be awarded the Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) degree, questions like “Is B.Pharm still worth it?” “Which is better: B.Pharm or Pharm.D?” and “What is our fate after postgraduate studies?” never leave our discussions. They are discussed during long lectures, in practicals and during breaks. They are the never-ending thoughts behind our chatter, giggles and noise.

Though understandable, I am neither here to allay your fears nor establish the supremacy of one over the other. It is irrelevant, and I do not intend to waste your time on such matters. After all, time is money.

However, on this subject, I am willing to lend you a pair of spectacles, different from the ones you have in your closet. I hope you will be kind enough to put them on.

The art of rethinking

One of the best skills to have is the ability to rethink. Yes, rethinking. It is an unconventional process of reviewing previously made decisions to change or improve them. It is like going back to where you had bid them goodnight.

To rethink is to think again.

Rethinking enables one to be open-minded; for one’s mind not to be built like a wall but a window, where ideologies undergo constant reassessment like ventilation. This is what the pioneers of Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) education did. They saw the need for the pharmacy profession to expand beyond its traditional compounding and dispensing roles.

It seems they took the wisdom in the lyrics of Fuji musician Taye Currency when he said, “Baye ba n yìí kaa ma baye yìí, bigba ba n yìí kaa ma ba gba yii, ẹnití o bá gbà yi, olùwà rẹ a bagba lọ,” meaning that we should change and adapt as the world and time change, because those who refuse to adapt will be left behind.

Contrary to some opinions, Pharm.D is not a replacement for B.Pharm but an evolutionary product: a movement from product-oriented practice to patient-oriented care. It is a tall order that involves an enormous amount of rethinking.

So, what can we learn from this?

Pharmacy has always evolved

Pharmacy as a profession, since time immemorial, has undergone a series of evolutions in accordance with each era. In fact, B.Pharm itself is an outcome of rethinking because it arose to fill a gap left by a previous model.

The product-oriented era gained prominence in the early 20th century and expanded after the Second World War, following the explosion of new medicines. Individuals were trained to prepare, compound and dispense drugs.

However, by the 1950s, pharmacy practice was becoming more clinical without completely losing its product-oriented character. Institutions such as the University of Southern California and the University of California, San Francisco, were among the pioneers of this transformation.

Before this clinical era, which eventually gave rise to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree, the pharmacist’s responsibility largely ended at the counter: dispense and go.

Pharmaceutical care changed that. It introduced follow-up, monitoring and counselling, among other responsibilities. Pharmacists became equipped with clinical knowledge that enabled them to participate in clinical decisions alongside other healthcare professionals.

Given that pharmacists are among the most accessible health professionals, this new programme sought to equip pharmacists with competencies that the traditional B.Pharm curriculum did not emphasise to the same extent, including health education, disease screening, disease management and counselling.

This is a classic example of instructional rethinking. And it can be applied to both the micro and macro elements of our lives.

Intellectual humility as foundation

Rethinking often begins with intellectual humility: the subtle act of admitting the gaps in your knowledge. It is the ability to say, “I don’t know this,” or, “I lack sufficient knowledge or evidence to make this decision.”

Acknowledging one’s lapses is not a sign of weakness or stupidity. Rather, it demonstrates the ability to find strength through our weaknesses. Confident humility acts as a stimulant for doubt, which opens the door to curiosity. Like the cat whose curiosity led to its demise nine times but was resurrected on every occasion, asking the right questions follows the same mechanism: it causes the death of ignorance and the resurrection of beneficial knowledge.

Even the Bible attests to the transformative power of questions, especially the right ones. Matthew 7:7 says, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.”

Humility takes us to the wall of our ignorance, but questions tear down that wall. However, these two are incomplete without the third ingredient: finding answers to the questions.

The traps in seeking answers

This stage is delicate because of the numerous traps it houses. In the process of persistent seeking (ìwákùwá), mess (ìríkùrí) and pleasant images (ìrígidí) will be encountered. The ability to distinguish and properly separate them into independent strands is a must.

At this stage, there are two traps into which one is likely to fall: confirmation bias and desirability bias. These concepts have been explored extensively by psychologists, including Daniel Kahneman, and popularised in contemporary discussions by writers such as Adam Grant. The former refers to the tendency to seek information that confirms what we already expect to see, while the latter describes the tendency to favour what we want to see.

These biases can nullify our efforts on the search journey, causing us to remove the scientist’s goggles from our eyes because feelings are placed over facts, and comfort over truth.

Doses of humility will make us embrace all answers, comfortable or not, and prevent us from cherry-picking those that align with our existing thoughts.

Rethinking through pharmacology

The act of rethinking how to rethink is itself an example of rethinking. It is not meant to be rigid but flexible. However, its flexibility should accommodate some fixed frameworks to prevent distorted rethinking.

Providing these guides is what I intend to do above, not to show you how to think again.

The first time I heard about drug repurposing was two weeks ago, while researching an assignment given to us on the subject. I realised that drug repurposing is a pharmacological version of rethinking: thinking again in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic terms.

In drug development, drug repurposing simply refers to the process of finding new uses for existing drugs. It involves redesigning a drug’s destiny. Think of it like a machete that was primarily designed to clear the bush, but whose other functions, such as chopping firewood or settling a boundary dispute, were later discovered. The latter functions then become just as relevant, or perhaps more valuable, in a different context.

Sildenafil provides a classic example. In the 1980s, sildenafil was developed by Pfizer as a potential treatment for angina pectoris and other cardiovascular conditions. During clinical trials, however, male participants reported an unexpected effect: erections. Scientists did not simply ignore this unexpected observation. They investigated it, rethought the drug’s potential and explored a new therapeutic application.

That work eventually led to sildenafil being approved for erectile dysfunction in March 1998 under the brand name Viagra. A few years later, sildenafil underwent another transformation and was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration as Revatio for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

What is behind this ever-evolving wonder drug? The answer is the scientists, whose rethinking glasses are always on. They are the “alatọkun”, the masquerade handlers, behind the “eegun”, making it dance to the changing tunes of the drum. They were confidently humble enough to recognise new possibilities arising from the unexpected findings during clinical trials. They went down the rabbit hole to seek answers to the apparent abnormality and, in doing so, discovered and explored a new side of sildenafil.

Do not be surprised if, in the near future, sildenafil is used for “financial hypoglycaemia” or “chronic sapa disease”.

Ask yourself: what actually needs to be rethought in my life?

This exercise may help us discover numerous approaches to different facets of our lives, just like Pharm.D and sildenafil.

Beyond the B.Pharm debate

To my colleagues who will soon be awarded a B.Pharm degree, my comrades-in-struggle, juggling demonic structures and synthesis in pharmaceutical chemistry to “-cology”, nauseating MOAs, I will leave you with this:

Wear the B.Pharm tag with pride. You deserve it.

A degree is not the sole determinant of your relevance; your willingness to evolve is.

Learn not only sildenafil’s mechanisms of action, but also the mechanisms of relevancy.

Embrace flexibility. Adopt range.

The question should not be whether B.Pharm is still worth it, but how I can integrate the lessons from Pharm.D and sildenafil into my life.

Keep rethinking, even this piece.

Remember: with a dosage of humility and wisdom.

FG, pharma firms unite to unlock billions from natural medicines

By

-

07/09/2026

– As NNMDA unveils seven indigenous products

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Udeh (second from right); Director-General of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency, Prof. Martins Emeje, (third from right); Consul General of India in Lagos, Shri Kannan,(right) and other stakeholders during the unveiling of herbal medicines developed by the NNMDA at the agency’s office in Lagos.

The Federal Government has disclosed its readiness to boost the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) through the production and export of natural medicines, with the potential to generate billions of dollars in revenue while ensuring the availability of essential medicines to the populace at affordable rates.

The government is pursuing the initiative in collaboration with leading pharmaceutical companies that have expressed interest in the commercialisation of locally developed medicines by government agencies.

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, made this disclosure during a special interview session with journalists at the official unveiling of seven indigenous healthcare products developed by the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA).

He said the products had undergone the necessary scrutiny by NAFDAC and had been approved for human safety and efficacy.

Udeh acknowledged Nigeria’s abundance of natural resources, including medicinal plants that have been used for centuries to promote the health and wellbeing of indigenous communities, stressing the importance of developing natural medicines from these resources.

He described NNMDA’s efforts to develop local medicines as significant contributions to achieving health equality and equity in the country. He also commended its research and development work on natural medicines targeting tropical diseases such as malaria and sickle cell disease, as well as other health conditions including cancer, hepatitis B and erectile dysfunction.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that these innovations are not limited to improving healthcare access but are also deliberately harnessed for the economic development of the nation through large-scale production and exportation.

“That’s why I visited this agency and have met with industry players, captains of industry in the pharmaceutical industry of Nigeria. And the resolution from the assessment is that we have, as a country, the potential to produce and export natural medicine to the tune of billions of US dollars.

“In fact, the Nigerian market can actually, from what we are producing, earn for this agency and for the pharmaceutical big players billions in revenue just from attending to the health needs of Nigeria.

“So, not only do I believe in its export potential and meeting the needs within the local market, we’re actually taking steps to ensure that this happens, and that’s why I held this meeting with industry players and the management of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency,” Udeh stated.

The minister further disclosed that his discussions with industry leaders involved five local manufacturers, one multinational company and NAFDAC. He said it was agreed that the industry players would partner with the ministry to take the agency’s products through large-scale production and marketing.

He underscored their experience in the pharmaceutical market and marketing capacity, describing them as well positioned to drive the commercialisation of the products.

“They are the ones that have the capacity to commercialise, capacity to market, capacity to ensure that this reaches Nigeria to solve our medical needs,” he said.

Udeh stressed the importance of ensuring that the resolutions reached at the meeting translated into concrete commitments rather than remaining mere discussions. He said the agreements would be documented, archived and preserved to ensure continuity beyond the tenure of the current officials.

“Part of the resolution we also undertook is that the deliberations wouldn’t just stop by making commitments and doing all the talk. We’ll also reduce this resolution and commitment in writing, so that once it takes that formal process, even if I’m no longer the minister, even if the DG is no longer in office, there will be a complete commitment to the partnership.

“Of course, our industry partners will know that the agreement is institutionalised and it will be respected as such.”

The minister also stressed the need for proper management of research outcomes, stating that research should not end with scientific discoveries but should progress to commercialisation.

He therefore appreciated the readiness of industry players to support the marketing and large-scale production of the agency’s products, recognising that private companies possess the expertise and capacity required to manufacture, distribute and commercialise innovations.

“This collaboration is expected to improve healthcare access, create jobs, increase company revenues, and generate income for both the agency and the nation,” he said.

NNMDA unveils seven products

Unveiling the products, the Director-General of NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje, listed the products and their indications as Namdacid for ulcers; Namdarol for high cholesterol; Namdavir for hepatitis B; Namdagor for erectile dysfunction; Turmejol for cancers; Zae Granules for hypertension; and Zae Herbal Tea, also for hypertension.

He emphasised that the efficacy of traditional, complementary and integrative medicine should not be judged solely by standards applied to conventional medicine, arguing that many medicinal plants have been used successfully for thousands of years through observation and practical experience.

Emeje, who is also co-chair of the Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (STAG-TM) of the World Health Organisation (WHO), disclosed that the WHO is developing innovative approaches, including reverse pharmacology, to document and validate the effectiveness of traditional medicine.

He maintained that while scientific validation is necessary for lesser-known medicinal plants, commonly consumed medicinal plants with long histories of safe use already have established evidence supporting their benefits.

Speaking on cancer research, the NNMDA DG identified Turmejol as one of the products being developed for colorectal, ovarian and prostate cancers.

He stated that scientific data had been presented privately to industry stakeholders demonstrating its effects on cancer cells but declined to disclose detailed findings publicly ahead of commercialisation.

He also distinguished between products intended to prevent diseases and those designed to treat them, stressing that dosage and professional application determine their appropriate use.

The DG further stated that the cultivation of medicinal plants in Nigeria forms the foundation for producing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), which are essential components of drug manufacturing.

He explained that standardisation begins at the farm level through Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP), including the proper cultivation, harvesting and processing of medicinal plants.

According to him, the minister’s visit demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s pharmaceutical value chain.

He stressed that Nigeria currently depends heavily on imported medicines and argued that the country’s long-term goal should be to produce and eventually export pharmaceutical products derived from indigenous medicinal plants.

He described the launch of the seven herbal products as the beginning of a transformation that could reduce import dependence, strengthen local manufacturing and create significant employment opportunities.

The indigenous medicines expert highlighted the economic potential of medicinal plant development, asserting that a fully developed value chain for a single medicinal plant could generate approximately 3.8 million jobs.

He said the commercialisation of the seven newly launched products could therefore have a significant impact on employment, industrial growth and Nigeria’s economy.

He explained that the products would reach the market through partnerships with private-sector manufacturers rather than through the research agency itself.

According to him, the meeting convened by the minister with industry leaders was intended to accelerate commercialisation by connecting scientific researchers with companies that have the capacity to manufacture, market and distribute the products nationwide.

Bello makes history, emerges first female PSN Kwara chairman

By

-

07/09/2026

Pharm. Munirat Kikelomo Bello has emerged as the new chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Kwara State Branch, becoming the first woman to hold the position in the state.

Bello emerged at the branch’s election held in Ilorin at the weekend, defeating two other candidates to take over the leadership of the association.

Her emergence marks another milestone in her leadership career within the pharmaceutical profession. She is the immediate past Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Kwara State Branch, where she also made history as the first woman to lead the association.

A graduate of Pharmacy from the University of Jos, Bello began her professional career in community pharmacy practice and later relocated to Ilorin, where she has continued to contribute to the development of the profession through leadership, advocacy and community pharmacy initiatives.

Reacting to her victory, the newly elected chairman expressed appreciation to members for the confidence reposed in her, describing the outcome as a collective victory.

The new executives are taking the oath of office.

“This victory is not mine alone; it is ours. It is a testament to our collective strength, unity and belief in a greater PSN Kwara,” she said.

Bello pledged to lead the association with integrity, transparency, and inclusiveness, placing members’ interests and welfare at the centre of her administration and advancing the pharmaceutical profession in Kwara State.

She will lead an executive comprising Pharm. Isaac Onimisi Salami as secretary; Pharm. Yunus Ahmed Tijani, internal auditor; Pharm. Kolawole Adetutu A. Abosede, treasurer; Pharm. Okpodu Ununotovo Ekemena, financial secretary; Pharm. Ramon Shadiat, public relations officer; Pharm. Alhaji Durowoju Lasisi Ayodeji, deputy chairman; and Pharm. Olaoyo Patience Pearl, assistant secretary.

Others are Pharm. Oloniyo Abidemi Mercy and Pharm. Samuel Arome O, both ex-officio members, while Pharm. Abdulmalik Mohammed Baba, the immediate past chairman, will serve as Immediate Past Chairman.

Speaking on his expectations of the new administration, Pharm. Abdulmalik Mohammed Baba urged Bello to regard the new assignment as a continuation of leadership and build on the achievements recorded by previous administrations.

“Governance is continuous. I would expect the new chairman to build on the achievements of the past leaders and also focus on whatever plans she has for Kwara PSN,” he said.

He described the outgoing administration’s three-year tenure as a period of significant progress, as he briefly cited interventions in infrastructure, members’ welfare and financial sustainability. Among these, he noted the installation of a 5kV hybrid solar system at the secretariat, initiatives towards establishing a PSN-owned bottled water project and efforts to improve the remuneration of young pharmacists, particularly those in community practice.

He also disclosed that the administration handed over a substantial amount to the incoming leadership and left the association at a loan-free level.

Beyond these achievements, however, he identified unity as the most important responsibility before the new administration.

“Most importantly, which I told the new chairman, is unity. She needs to bring everybody together. You identify and carry everybody along. It makes things easier,” he said.

According to him, Bello must ensure that members across the various interests within the association feel carried along, stressing that unity has remained one of the strengths of Kwara PSN at the national level.

He urged the new chairman to sustain the identity of Kwara pharmacists as “Kwara United” within the national body by building bridges among members and ensuring an inclusive administration.

He however expressed confidence that Bello would sustain the level of development she inherited while bringing her own vision and leadership agenda to the association.

With her election, Bello becomes the first woman to lead PSN Kwara, following her previous leadership of ACPN Kwara and marking a new chapter in the history of pharmacy leadership in the state.

Sherifat Ukachukwu: Award-winning nurse making waves in Irish healthcare

By

Ola Aboderin

-

07/09/2026

Sherifat Ukachukwu: Award-winning nurse making waves in Irish healthcare — Nurse Sherifat Abimbola Ukachukwu

For Nurse Sherifat Abimbola Ukachukwu, 10 July 2026 will remain one of the most memorable dates in her nursing career. On that Friday, she received the Outstanding African Healthcare Leader Award during the African Health Summit Ireland, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown, Dublin. The summit, organised around the theme, “Leading the Future of Healthcare Across Borders”, brought together healthcare professionals, researchers, educators, policymakers, innovators and community leaders from Ireland, Africa and the wider international community to exchange knowledge, strengthen partnerships and explore solutions to healthcare challenges.

According to the organisers, Ukachukwu was honoured for her leadership in healthcare education and her contribution to professional development, innovation and international collaboration. She also played a prominent role at the summit as lead facilitator for the World Café session, guiding healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds through a series of collaborative discussions. The session explored practical responses to challenges including workforce sustainability, leadership development, equitable access to healthcare and international collaboration. The recognition marked another significant milestone in a career that has spanned clinical practice, nursing education, quality improvement and professional leadership.

A registered nurse in both Ireland and Nigeria, Ukachukwu currently serves as clinical skills learning coordinator in the Department of Nursing and Healthcare at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS). In this role, she supports the development of students’ practice-learning environments, coordinates and plans clinical skills training, and contributes to maintaining high standards in nursing education. Earlier on, she had distinguished herself as a neonatal nurse at Portiuncula University Hospital, where she developed the Special Care Baby Unit Little Library, a quality-improvement initiative designed to promote parental bonding, early literacy and family-centred care for premature and sick newborns.

Reacting to her latest feat, Head of the Department of Nursing and Healthcare at TUS, Dr Des Cawley, described it as an “outstanding and richly deserved achievement”, adding that the award recognised her contribution to healthcare education, professional development and clinical collaboration across borders.

Background and career path

Ukachukwu obtained her nursing degree from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in 2010, after which she began her career at Our Lady of Apostles Catholic Hospital, Ibadan, before moving to Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). Over time, she gained experience in several areas of practice, including medical-surgical nursing, neonatal nursing, radiology nursing and nursing administration.

Her experience in nursing administration subsequently strengthened her interest in education and professional development. Working with students and clinical placements exposed her to the importance of preparing nurses not only academically but also for the realities of clinical practice. She was also involved in quality-improvement initiatives and healthcare innovation.

Following her relocation to Ireland in 2018, Ukachukwu continued her professional journey as a neonatal nurse while contributing to quality-improvement projects. She later obtained specialised training in neonatal nursing from Trinity College Dublin and a Master of Science degree in Nursing Leadership and Quality Healthcare from TUS, graduating with First Class Honours. She also obtained certification in advanced clinical audit.

Groundbreaking innovation

Ukachukwu began her career in Ireland at Portiuncula University Hospital, a public hospital in Ballinasloe, County Galway. She worked as a neonatal nurse while engaging in care planning, preceptorship, collaborative problem-solving, health promotion and quality-improvement projects.

It was during this period that she developed the Special Care Baby Unit Little Library in 2023, an initiative aimed at improving the experience of parents whose premature or sick babies were admitted to the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU). The project was driven by her observation of the emotional challenges faced by parents in neonatal care and evidence from empirical studies on the benefits of early reading and interactive engagement for preterm and unwell infants.

The Little Library introduced a practical, family-centred approach to care, providing age-appropriate, durable and wipeable books and audiobooks for parents to use with their babies. The resources were designed to create opportunities for intimate interaction between parents and their newborns while supporting early literacy and family bonding.

The project involved multidisciplinary collaboration and the establishment of a dedicated library space within the SCBU. Parents were introduced to the initiative during orientation, while a Plan-Do-Check-Act cycle was used to support continuous improvement. The project was subsequently presented at professional forums, including the All-Ireland Maternity & Midwifery Festival, where Ukachukwu presented the initiative under the theme of improving continuity of care.

That innovation further affirms Ukachukwu’s commitment to identifying practical needs within healthcare settings and developing relatively simple interventions that can improve patients’ and families’ experiences.

Strategic transition

In July 2024, Ukachukwu was appointed clinical skills learning coordinator at TUS’s Athlone campus, a natural progression from her earlier experience. Her clinical background gives her first-hand understanding of patient care, while her experience with student placements, quality improvement and nursing administration provides a broader perspective on professional preparation.

The transition from clinical nursing to nursing education has also positioned Ukachukwu to influence healthcare through the preparation of future practitioners. Clinical skills training is a crucial component of nursing education because it helps students translate theoretical knowledge into practical competence. For nurses, competence goes beyond knowing what should be done. It involves performing procedures safely, communicating effectively with patients and colleagues, recognising changing clinical situations and making appropriate decisions under pressure.

Ukachukwu’s current role therefore places her at an important point in the healthcare education chain, where she can contribute to patient care by helping prepare the professionals who will provide it. Her own account of completing her master’s degree reflects this connection. After graduating with First Class Honours in Nursing Leadership and Quality Healthcare, she said the qualification would help her bring “new insights and innovations” to teaching and support the development of high-quality, patient-centred care.

Ukachukwu’s professional interests extend beyond her formal responsibilities. She previously served as research director of Lead Nurse Africa International Foundation. This is in addition to her growing list of notable publications, including Nursing Management of Necrotising Fasciitis (2016) and Nursing Profession as a Passion (2017).

Awards and recognition

The 2026 Outstanding African Healthcare Leader Award was not Ukachukwu’s first professional recognition. In 2023, she received the Nurse Innovator of the Year Award from the Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives in Ireland.

Earlier, in 2021, she was recognised as Outstanding Nigerian Nurse in the Diaspora by Fellow Nurses Africa. She also received a leadership award from the La Roche Leadership Foundation in 2018 for demonstrating leadership attributes and contributing to sustainable development.

The progression of these recognitions is noteworthy because they acknowledge the different dimensions of Nurse Sherifat Ukachukwu’s growing professional accomplishments, including leadership, innovation and her work as a high-flying Nigerian nurse in the diaspora.

Greenlife Unveils PACT 2026, Targets Sustainable Pharma Growth

By

-

06/09/2026

A cross-section of Greenlife’s trade partners and management staff at the PACT 2026 forum held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.

Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Limited, a major player in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, has unveiled the Pharmacy Access and Commercial Trade (PACT) 2026, an initiative aimed at strengthening relationships with its trade partners and promoting sustainable growth across the pharmaceutical value chain.

The inaugural PACT forum, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, brought together key wholesale and trade partners to recognise businesses that partnered with Greenlife during the 2025–2026 financial year and to discuss institutionalisation, strategic partnerships and long-term business growth.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Limited, Pharm. Peter Chukwudalu Nwosu, said the initiative was designed to move the company’s relationship with its partners beyond routine commercial transactions.

According to him, Greenlife’s next phase would focus on listening better to its customers, responding faster, making business easier and understanding the challenges of its partners. He said stronger relationships remained critical to the company’s growth, particularly in a challenging business environment characterised by rising operating costs.

Nwosu also disclosed that Greenlife was working towards local manufacturing, noting that rising costs of active pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients had continued to put pressure on the pharmaceutical industry. He said government measures aimed at reducing the cost burden on manufacturers could support the transition.

The General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Pharm. Derick Osondu, said PACT represented part of Greenlife’s effort to build a closer and more responsive relationship with its partners. He urged participants to provide honest feedback through the company’s feedback channels to enable Greenlife to improve its services.

He said the company’s growth had been shaped not only by its internal efforts but also by the trust and commitment of the businesses that have worked with it over the years. Osondu noted that the forum therefore provided an opportunity for Greenlife to appreciate its partners while creating a platform for deeper engagement and shared growth.

Speaking on “Sustainable Pharma Access and Commercial Trade through Institutionalization,” the company’s Corporate Performance and Strategy representative, Mr Jones Ekwealor, challenged trade partners to build businesses that could survive beyond their founders.

He identified governance, finance, systems and processes, people, and strategy as five critical pillars for institutionalising businesses. He also stressed the need for proper financial records, effective inventory and credit controls, competent management, succession planning and reliable business data.

Ekwealor further warned businesses to prepare adequately for the evolving tax environment, stressing that poor reconciliation of sales, inventory, customer records, bank transactions and tax obligations could expose businesses to avoidable risks.

The Business Development Manager, Pharm. Henry Okolo, explained that PACT was structured around the principle of exponential growth and long-term partnership. He said the initiative would move beyond conventional discounts by creating additional value for partners through structured commercial opportunities.

He described the initiative as a commitment framework intended to encourage sustained business growth rather than a one-off commercial incentive, urging partners to embrace opportunities that would strengthen their businesses and deepen their relationship with Greenlife.

A former National Chairman of the National Association of Industrial Pharmacists (NAIP) and Chief Operating Officer of Alpha Pharmacy and Stores Ltd., Pharm. Ignatius Anuku, commended Greenlife for the initiative, describing it as evidence of the company’s long-term strategic thinking.

Anuku also called for greater investment in local pharmaceutical manufacturing, saying Nigeria could not depend indefinitely on imported medicines to meet the healthcare needs of its growing population. He urged pharmaceutical companies and trade partners to build relationships based on trust, communication and mutual benefit.

The event climaxed with the presentation of awards to outstanding Greenlife partners. SS & Duke Pharmaceutical Limited was the first recipient, while Medplus Pharmacy received the Lonart Legacy Award. Grace Johnson Pharmaceutical Limited received the P-Alaxin Legacy Award, DrugStoc EHub Limited was honoured with Portfolio Excellence Award, while New Heights Wholesales Limited won the Funbact A Legacy Award.

According to Pharm. Sebastian Osakwe, the awards would form part of the company continuing effort to recognise and celebrate partners who contribute to the company’s growth, with more partners expected to be honoured at subsequent editions of PACT.

A patient is taking a drug that is highly protein bound.

By

-

04/09/2026

6

A patient is taking a drug that is highly protein bound. Another medicine is introduced that has a greater affinity for the same plasma protein-binding site. Assuming the displaced drug has a small volume of distribution, what is the most immediate pharmacokinetic consequence?

A. Decreased free-drug concentration and reduced effect
B. Increased free-drug concentration and potentially increased effect
C. Increased hepatic first-pass metabolism and reduced effect
D. Decreased renal filtration and prolonged absorption

A pharmacy student is asked to identify a compound that contains a benzene ring infused to a five-membered heterocyclic ring containing two nitrogen atoms, with the heteroatoms occupying positions 1 and 3 of the five-membered ring. Which heterocyclic nucleus is being described?

A. Indole
B. Benzimidazole
C. Benzoxazole
D. Quinazoline

FIP urges greater pharmacists role in medicine selection

By

-

04/09/2026

The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has called for pharmacists to be given greater responsibility in selecting medicines, including generic substitution and therapeutic interchange, to improve access to treatment and patient outcomes.

The call was made in a new policy statement released on 3 September 2026, as part of resolutions from the just concluded World Congress of the FIP, held in Montreal, Canada, from 30 August to 2 September.

The policy replaces FIP’s 2018 policy on pharmacists’ authority in pharmaceutical product selection and reflects changes in healthcare, including the increasing use of generic and biosimilar medicines, digital health technologies and the growing challenge of medicine shortages.

According to the global body of pharmacists, pharmacists should be allowed, where national laws permit, to use their clinical knowledge to make evidence-based decisions on medicine selection.

The federation said this could help patients maintain continuity of care, improve access to medicines and support health systems facing financial and supply pressures.

“Pharmacists are the healthcare professionals with the greatest expertise in medicines, making them ideally placed to lead pharmaceutical product selection,” said Mr Daragh Connolly, co-chair of the policy committee.

He added that giving pharmacists the opportunity to practise according to their competence could benefit both patients and health systems as healthcare needs become more complex.

The policy also calls for patients to be involved when changes are made to their medicines.

Mr Lars-Åke Söderlund, another co-chair of the policy committee, said pharmacists should explain why a medicine is being substituted or changed and address concerns that could affect patients’ confidence in their treatment.

FIP also stressed the importance of collaboration between pharmacists, prescribers and other healthcare professionals to ensure that changes to medicines are safe and properly coordinated.

The policy further highlights the role of digital technology in medicine optimisation. It encourages the use of electronic health records, clinical decision-support systems and real-world evidence to improve patient safety, pharmacovigilance and continuity of care.

FIP noted that pharmacists can play an important role in responding to medicine shortages, strengthening medicine supply chains and supporting more sustainable healthcare.

The federation called on governments and policymakers to create clear legal frameworks that allow pharmacists to contribute fully to medicine selection. It also urged stakeholders to strengthen public understanding and confidence in generic and biosimilar medicines.

FIP further called for investment in pharmacists education, digital infrastructure and collaborative models of care to support better use of medicines.

The federation said strengthening pharmacist-led, evidence-based medicine selection could improve patient outcomes, expand access to treatment and help build more resilient healthcare systems worldwide.

Global partners launch initiative to improve Mpox vaccines access

By

-

04/09/2026

A global stockpile of Mpox vaccines has been launched to ensure countries can access vaccines quickly when responding to outbreaks.

The initiative, launched on 27 August, is expected to begin operations later in September and to provide countries with access to vaccines regardless of their ability to pay.

The stockpile was approved by the Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, in 2025 and is funded by Gavi. It will be coordinated by the International Coordinating Group (ICG) on Vaccine Provision, with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO) as partners.

The initiative builds on the Access and Allocation Mechanism established in 2024 during the previous Mpox Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

According to Gavi CEO, Dr Sania Nishtar, the stockpile was created partly in response to the unequal access to mpox vaccines experienced by lower-income countries during the 2022 outbreak.

“During the 2022 Mpox outbreak, lower-income countries were left behind when it came to access to vaccines and it was clear that a mechanism was needed to ensure this global public good could be accessed by those who need it most,” Nishtar said.

She added that every country should be able to access the stockpile, regardless of its ability to pay, noting that Gavi had previously supported the global response to the 2024 Mpox emergency through its First Response Fund.

Nishtar stated that the organisation hopes the stockpile will help make the world safer from the threat of Mpox.

Also speaking on the initiative, Secretary General and CEO of the IFRC, Jagan Chapagain, described access to vaccines as essential to controlling the disease.“Access to vaccines – for all who need them – is vital,” Chapagain said.

He said the global coordination mechanism would help ensure that vaccines reach communities at the greatest risk when and where they are needed.

Mpox continues to cause outbreaks globally, with about two-thirds of reported cases occurring in the African Region. Between 1 January 2022 and 31 July 2026, 145 countries and territories reported 190,683 confirmed cases and 529 deaths.

Mpox is a viral disease that spreads mainly through close physical contact, while animal-to-human transmission continues to occur in parts of Africa.

The disease can become severe, especially among children and people with weakened immune systems. Vaccination can help reduce transmission, prevent severe illness and support faster control of outbreaks.

NARD demands arrest, prosecution of Gwarinpa doctor’s assailants

By

-

04/09/2026

National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD logo

The Nigerian Association of Residents Doctors (NARD) has called for the immediate arrest and apprehension of the relatives of a patient who assaulted a senior doctor at Gwarinpa General Hospital, Abuja.

In a press statement issued on Friday, the association reported that the doctor was attacked while on duty at the Accident and Emergency Unit by a patient and his companions after an altercation.

NARD expressed its disappointment and frowned at the indecent display of the individuals involved, as it considers it a threat to the life, safety, dignity and welfare of health workers that render services to the public.

Sequel to the attack, the national leadership of NARD, in line with the resolutions of the congress, has ordered a 48-hour step-down of services at the hospital, effective from 8:00a.m.on 3 September to 8:00a.m. on 5 September.

The association commended the leadership and congress for taking the necessary actions and implementing security measures, allowing the relevant authorities to address the matter.

The association calls for the strengthening of security measures across healthcare facilities, especially Accident and Emergency Unit to properly safeguard health workers, patients and the hospital properly.

The national leadership also extended its solidarity and sympathy to the affected colleague, while calling for measures to ensure the safety, dignity and welfare of healthcare workers.

Which pharmacokinetic parameter is most directly used to determine the maintenance dosing rate of a drug given by continuous intravenous infusion?

By

-

03/09/2026

7

Which pharmacokinetic parameter is most directly used to determine the maintenance dosing rate of a drug given by continuous intravenous infusion?
A. Bioavailability
B. Half-life
C. Clearance
D. Volume of distribution

A weakly basic drug has a pKa of 8.0. At a physiological pH of 7.0, which statement best describes its ionisation state?
A. It is completely unionised
B. It is predominantly unionised
C. It exists equally in both forms
D. It is predominantly ionised

TBAs, FBAs urged to reduce maternal casualties

By

-

03/09/2026

Nursing mothers and pregnant women during a medical outreach.

Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) and Faith-Based Birth Attendants (FBAs) operating at the grassroots have been sensitised on the need to reduce maternal deaths during childbirth.

The sensitisation programme was organised by the Rotary Club of Lagos Royale. Speaking during the outreach at the Orile Agege Primary Health Centre, Lagos, the Charter President of the club, Dr Bountiful Adelanwa, said the exercise was aimed at reducing the number of maternal deaths during childbirth.

“Every Rotary Club has projects in its local community. While we also operate at the global level, our priority at the local level is to serve our immediate community.

“We have visited Primary Health Centres and maternal homes to donate gifts to pregnant women and new mothers.

“For this edition, however, the club is taking a different approach. Within our community, most women, particularly the indigenous population, prefer to patronise Traditional Birth Attendants and Faith-Based Birth Attendants.

“We cannot ignore the reality on the ground, and we will not shy away from it. That is why we are taking the bull by the horns by partnering with registered Traditional Birth Attendants and Faith-Based Birth Attendants,” she said.

She added that maternal childbirth cases were under-reported at the local government level, and that was why the club was working to ensure there were no casualties at any point.

“Except the government organises sensitisation programmes like this, the knowledge gap will remain. So for us, we are retraining them.

“Through our team of medical doctors, we are retraining them on proper labour management and on recognising when to refer patients during childbirth,” Adelanwa said.

Mr Jimi Ajibola, assistant governor, Rotary Club of Lagos Royale, said it was necessary to empower and enlighten both birth attendants because of their level of acceptance in the community.

Dr Kolawole Ashoro, a rotarian and medical director of Medwin Hospital, Lagos, while addressing the birth attendants, advised them to be cautious when admitting pregnant women.

He urged them to always check and confirm the medical records of pregnant women before admitting them.

“Some pregnant women may have a history of complicated medical conditions and choose to hide it from TBAs and FBAs, which could later lead to complications during childbirth.

“A patient may have previously undergone a caesarean section — a surgical procedure where one or more babies are delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen — and chooses to hide it from local birth attendants. That is dangerous,” he said.

“That is why we are here to educate you on signs to look for when admitting pregnant women,” he said.

Dr Abolanle Ategbero, a resident doctor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), thanked the Rotary Club of Lagos Royale for its noble sensitisation projects in the community.

She said the Rotary Club of Lagos Royale was doing well because the initiative serves humanity, adding that she had seen cases mismanaged by TBAs.

“Sometimes they just wait, hoping things will get better, and then the case gets worse.

“That is why it is important to have education sessions like this for them, to remind them. It is not that they do not know, but that there is no room for trial and error in childbirth,” she said.

She said although medical professionals were biased against traditional and faith-based birth attendants, they could not ignore their presence in society.

Mr Akinpelu Balogun, a traditional birth attendant, noted that traditional practices remain the primary method they use for childbirth.

He added that TBAs were adequately trained within their tradition to manage childbirth cases.

According to him, the enlightenment session also opened their eyes to various challenges encountered during maternal care and labour.

The club donated hospital materials, bedspreads and other items to participants to enhance their services.

Solving pharma workforce problems requires better management, not blaming young pharmacists — Odukoya

By

-

03/09/2026

Solving pharma workforce problems requires better management, not blaming young pharmacists — Odukoya — Pharm. Taofik Odukoya

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard Pharmacy Limited, Pharm. Taofik Odukoya, has urged community pharmacy owners to stop blaming young pharmacists for the industry’s workforce challenges and instead create workplaces that attract, develop and retain talent.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Pharmanews in Abuja, the award-winning community pharmacist said the dynamics of the pharmacy workforce have changed significantly, with pharmacists now having a wider range of career opportunities beyond traditional practice, making competition for skilled professionals much more intense.

“For me, the greatest workforce reality is that the landscape has changed and the competition for talent has completely changed. I don’t think many of our colleagues are seeing it that way,” he said.

He explained that unlike in the past, when pharmacists had relatively few career options after graduation, today’s professionals can build careers in health technology, fintech, e-commerce, digital media and several other sectors.

“A lot of them are doing content creation online and earning good incomes. Many industries are now competing for the same pharmacists community pharmacy wants to recruit,” he noted.

Odukoya said this reality demands a change in how pharmacy owners approach workforce management, stressing that human capital decisions should no longer be left exclusively to human resources departments.

“The whole idea of understanding this bigger picture is to shape our thinking. Workforce management should no longer sit only within the human resources department. It should be discussed at the highest strategic level of the company so that decisions capable of truly impacting people can be made.”

He cautioned against the common tendency to blame younger pharmacists for changing jobs frequently, arguing that employers should instead examine their own workplace culture and management practices.

“The younger generation is not the problem. The same people we complain about go into fintech and other industries and perform exceptionally well. Those organisations also find ways to retain them. So, the real question is: What are we not doing right as community pharmacy employers?”

Odukoya also described employee development as the foundation of sustainable workforce management, revealing that Vanguard Pharmacy has consistently invested in staff training for more than a decade.

“For over ten years, training and retraining have been treated as a fixed annual cost in our organisation. It doesn’t matter whether someone stays for one year or ten years—we invest in developing them.”

He explained that the company deliberately rejects the fear that investing in employees is wasted if they eventually resign.

“Our philosophy is simple: If we don’t train people because we think they might leave, what happens if they stay? We would rather continue to train and retrain because when people leave, they become ambassadors of our brand wherever they go.”

On the growing migration of healthcare professionals, Odukoya acknowledged that no organisation can realistically retain every employee, particularly with changing career expectations among younger professionals.

“There is no organisation in the world that can retain 100 per cent of its employees. Today’s workforce is different. Many young professionals are unlikely to spend 25 or 30 years with one employer as previous generations did.”

He advised employers to maximise the contributions of employees while they remain with the organisation and maintain positive relationships even after they leave.

“When they eventually move on, they should become lifelong ambassadors of your organisation. That should be the goal.”

Offering advice to young pharmacist-entrepreneurs, Odukoya encouraged business owners to build organisations founded on openness, fairness and a clearly communicated long-term vision.

“It’s not just about money. People want to know where the business is going and whether they have an opportunity to grow with it. Share your vision with them. Let them understand your five-year or ten-year plan.”

He added that although some employees would inevitably leave, many would remain committed if they could clearly see opportunities for personal and professional growth.

“Not everyone will stay forever, but if people believe in your vision and see a future for themselves within your organisation, many will choose to stay and help build that future with you,” he said.

Building a system that supports breastfeeding mothers

By

Our Correspondent

-

03/09/2026

World Breastfeeding Week 2026, observed globally from 1 to 7 August, has once again drawn attention to the lifelong significance of breastfeeding for child health and national development. This year’s theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” placed particular emphasis on the economic value of exclusive breastfeeding and on the systems nations must strengthen to support nursing mothers, especially in the workplace. Across Nigeria, the week was marked by community outreaches, advocacy walks and sensitisation campaigns focused on infant nutrition.

Ahead of the commemoration, the Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Catherine Russell, and the Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, called on governments to invest more deliberately in policies that promote breastfeeding. They noted that doing so could prevent close to 400,000 child deaths and about 140,000 maternal deaths annually. Both leaders stressed that every dollar invested in breastfeeding promotion yields an estimated 59 dollars in economic returns, through reduced healthcare costs, improved cognitive development, higher educational attainment and greater lifetime earnings.

In Nigeria, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, urged nursing mothers to embrace exclusive breastfeeding alongside healthy lifestyles and nutritious diets, describing the practice as a vital investment in family health and sustainable national development. The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare similarly called for early initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, timely introduction of complementary foods thereafter, and continued breastfeeding for up to two years or beyond.

These calls, however, are set against a troubling reality. The Chief of the UNICEF Field Office in Enugu, Juliet Chiluwe, disclosed during the celebration that only between 29 and 34 per cent of Nigerian infants are exclusively breastfed in their first six months, a figure well below global recommendations and a clear indication that advocacy alone has not translated into practice. Closing this gap will require skilled breastfeeding support within health facilities, community-based counselling, stronger maternity protection policies and firmer safeguards against the aggressive marketing of commercial milk formulas.

The Federal Ministry’s position is commendable, as it aligns with WHO and UNICEF recommendations and reflects government commitment to building a stronger breastfeeding culture. Yet commitment on paper is not enough. The government must investigate the specific barriers behind the low compliance rate that UNICEF has identified, so that interventions are targeted rather than general.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has added its voice to this effort. Speaking at the 2026 World Breastfeeding Week Capacity Building Event for Healthcare Professionals in Isolo, Lagos, the Director-General, Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the Director of the Food Safety and Applied Nutrition Directorate, Mrs Eva Edwards, affirmed that every child deserves the best possible start in life, and that breast milk remains the ideal foundation for that start, protecting against common childhood illnesses while supporting optimal brain development.

However, beyond official pronouncements, two obstacles continue to undermine progress. The first is the persistence of cultural and religious beliefs that wrongly regard colostrum as unclean, a myth that a sustained, nationwide sensitisation campaign could help to dispel. The second is the absence of a coherent national maternity leave policy. Provisions vary widely between federal, state and private sector employers, leaving many nursing mothers without adequate time or support to breastfeed.

Although national labour law requires employers to provide maternity leave with at least half of an employee’s salary, enforcement remains weak. Reports persist of women in private employment losing their jobs on account of childbirth, or receiving reduced pay during maternity leave. Such practices, effectively penalising women for having children, will continue to hold Nigeria back unless government and the Nigeria Labour Congress act decisively to sanction employers who violate these provisions.

World Breastfeeding Week 2026 demonstrated the willingness of government and stakeholders to confront the barriers to a sustainable breastfeeding culture in Nigeria. But advocacy must not end with a commemorative week. The real test lies in translating awareness into enforceable policy, supportive workplace practice and sustained community action that enables mothers to breastfeed successfully. Only then can Nigeria convert the promise of breastfeeding into lasting gains for the health and future of its children. The time to turn advocacy into action is now.

From terror to triumph: Cancer survivors share stories of courage and resilience

By

-

02/09/2026

Fear can be tormenting and deeply devastating, especially when attached to a cancer diagnosis. But for many survivors, confronting that fear, seeking treatment and finding support can transform a terrifying diagnosis into a story of survival.

“Cancer made me discover a new passion in life,” said Tosin Adewale, a 32-year-old man who was diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2023. “It gave me a new direction in awareness and advocacy. Before my diagnosis, I never knew I had that talent for encouraging others about early detection. But after going through a series of treatments, I developed an interest in speaking publicly about my cancer journey, reaching out to people for support and raising awareness about early detection.”

Like Adewale, an estimated 130,000 Nigerians are diagnosed with cancer annually, with breast and prostate cancers being the most prevalent, followed by cervical and colorectal cancers, according to data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

The good news is that “cancer is no longer a death sentence”, says the Regional Coordinator, National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Professor Olusegun Alatise. He stressed that improving the quality of care and promoting early detection are crucial to survival.

Mrs Benita Egone, a middle-aged breast cancer survivor who almost declined treatment because of misconceptions about chemotherapy, later narrated how she overcame her fear, underwent treatment and survived the disease.

“I took my drugs consistently for one year. But while taking my drugs, in June 2024, I had issues back home, and I had complications that resulted in bleeding and a ruptured ovary. The result indicated fibroids. So, I was eventually scheduled for a 14-day radiation session.

“I did all that. And this is me here today because I took my drugs. I recovered my life from cancer, and I’m happy to be alive,” she shared enthusiastically.

Aside from discovering a new passion, Adewale also shared how the love and care of his loved ones, coupled with his faith and dogged determination to overcome the disease, kept him going, even at the most difficult moments.

“The incredible faith I had in God, myself and what I was doing were big pillars of support for me. Also, health has taught me that courage is not just the absence of fear. Courage is about moving forward despite obstacles.”

The World Health Organisation (WHO) also echoes the message of hope to people living with cancer, assuring them that a cancer diagnosis does not necessarily mean the end of life. It estimates that about 30 to 50 per cent of cancer deaths could be prevented through lifestyle modification, avoidance of risk factors and the implementation of existing evidence-based preventive strategies.

Misdiagnosis: A major barrier to early detection

With campaigns on early detection as a pathway to improved cancer survival gaining momentum, the stories of many patients point to misdiagnosis as a major contributor to late presentation. This signals a health-system challenge that requires urgent attention. Adewale and Egone also encountered diagnostic challenges during their journeys, but their resilience helped them persist until they received appropriate care.

“My journey started in 2020, with a lump on my breast, so I decided to go for a check-up,” Egone narrated. “The first surgeon I consulted directed me to go for a scan. Thereafter, he told me something funny, and then I left. I met another surgeon who did a wrong biopsy on me. So, after the wrong biopsy, he was shocked that I thought it was cancer stage one, when the biopsy that was done wrongly resulted in a lump because it was done wrongly.”

The WHO identifies diagnostic errors as a global patient-safety problem and specifically recognises cancer as a condition in which delayed diagnosis can be harmful and costly.

Adewale, a colorectal cancer warrior, encountered a similar situation.

“Initially, I had no idea of what was happening to me. I had symptoms of malaria, constipation, blood in my stool, persistent stomach pain and so on,” he said. “Until I was rushed to the hospital, when I became anaemic and unconscious. Even the doctors were confused; they didn’t have an idea of what was happening to me. Being a primary healthcare centre, I was treated based on the symptoms I had. But when I went back home, I felt something seemed not right.”

While a paucity of data on cancer misdiagnosis remains another challenge, a recent multicentre study in Kano and Ibadan found that misdiagnosis and inconclusive results were prevalent health-system contributors to delayed diagnosis, with a median five-month interval between first presentation to a formal healthcare professional and cancer diagnosis.

In an exclusive interview with Pharmanews, Dr Olaiya Popoola, a clinical oncologist at Bell Oncology Specialist Hospital, corroborated the earlier accounts, describing diagnostic error in cancer care as a systemic issue involving different specialists and procedures.

He explained that cancer diagnosis involves several stages, from biopsy and tissue preservation to pathological assessment, meaning that an error at any point can affect the final diagnosis.

“If there’s a problem, there could be a misdiagnosis along the line,” he said.

Shortage of oncologists, fear of chemotherapy

These challenges underscore the need for the leadership of the healthcare system to expedite action on improving cancer diagnosis through the establishment of adequate diagnostic facilities, provision of equipment for timely testing and recruitment of more oncologists across the states of the federation.

Such measures would ease patients’ burden in accessing timely care, although the financial burden of treatment remains another major challenge.

Egone’s story shows how the absence of an oncologist in Delta State worsened her situation, as she had to travel to Rivers State for diagnosis and treatment and subsequently to Lagos State for further care.

“We don’t have an oncologist in Delta State, not even one,” she lamented.

Worse still, it is alarming to know that 16 states in the country have no radiation or clinical oncologist, according to the President of the Nigerian Cancer Society (NCS), Professor Abidemi Omonisi. The situation raises questions about what more can be done to address the shortage.

“So, when my case was finally diagnosed, I didn’t go for chemotherapy. I was scared because of the too many things people had said about it,” Egone said.

She initially turned to supplements and remained on them from 2020 to 2022, but her condition deteriorated. After being referred to a private hospital in Lagos, she began chemotherapy. She said the oncologist’s explanation of the treatment changed her perception of chemotherapy.

Psychosocial support from practitioners and families

Experts acknowledge the importance of psychosocial care in cancer treatment, noting that it can significantly influence patients’ survival experience and quality of life. The WHO Regional Office for Africa, International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) have all emphasised the importance of psycho-oncology as part of comprehensive cancer care, addressing patients’ physical, psychosocial and spiritual well-being.

This is reflected in the experiences of the survivors, who attributed part of their ability to overcome the disease to the love and support of caregivers and family members, alongside medical treatment.

Egone recalled how, through her brother, she encountered an NGO that supported her financially and emotionally.

“I met an NGO online through my brother, and I registered with them. And they introduced me to what I would call my God-sent oncologist.”

Adewale also affirmed the importance of the support he received from people and healthcare practitioners throughout his journey.

“At each point along my journey, I reached out to people for physical and financial assistance, and they have been a great pillar of support for me. For instance, when I was to do my immunohistochemistry, it was funding assistance that saw me through.”

Dr Popoola upheld the same view, stressing that patients need considerable psychosocial support from their families and other members of society.

He argued that when patients or survivors are rejected or stigmatised at home, they may feel abandoned and worthless, but when they are accepted, cherished and treated properly, they are better positioned to cope with the disease and maintain a better quality of life.

Adewale sums up his experience in simple terms: “Courage is not just the absence of fear. Courage is about moving forward despite obstacles.”

Waste disposal crisis and public health in Lagos

By

Patrick Iwelunmor

-

02/09/2026

The rate at which massive waste dumps are lining Lagos road medians should deeply concern the state government. This disturbing development is making a caricature of the state’s famous reputation as the Centre of Excellence. Excellence cannot coexist with the proliferation of filth. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu should therefore rise to the occasion and address this unsightly situation with the urgency it deserves.

It is important to ask some pertinent questions. Is the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) no longer functioning effectively? Is the state government fully aware of the public health implications of this unfortunate reality? Given the population density of Lagos, the accumulation of refuse across major roads could trigger the outbreak of infectious diseases, and we all understand the consequences of disease transmission in a densely populated environment. With the crushing economic hardship many Lagosians are already facing, coupled with the huge out-of-pocket healthcare expenses borne by the average family, this is certainly not the time to contemplate another public health emergency.

From Alimosho to Oshodi, the same ugly picture “twines me like a snake.” This does not portray Lagos as the cosmopolitan city it prides itself on being. Rather, it points to the possibility of a deeper structural challenge within the state’s waste management system. Whatever the underlying problem may be, the government must carry the public along. As of the time of writing, no comprehensive explanation has been offered by the state government. Modern governance should never be an esoteric exercise. Citizens deserve timely and transparent explanations on issues that directly affect their lives. This is why effective communication remains an indispensable pillar of good governance.

Governor Sanwo-Olu and his team should move swiftly to resolve this waste crisis, primarily because of its far-reaching public health implications. We cannot afford another disease outbreak when families are already struggling under difficult economic conditions. The Lagos State Commissioner for Information should engage the media and communicate clearly with Lagosians, explaining the factors responsible for the situation and the concrete measures being implemented to resolve it. Public communication not only builds trust but also helps to prevent misinformation, speculation and unnecessary panic. Perhaps some persons in the corridors of power underestimate how quickly public perception can change and how seemingly small issues can shape the mood of the electorate.

I have heard some Lagosians attribute the waste crisis to the failure of the All Progressives Congress as a political party. While everyone is entitled to an opinion, it is hardly surprising that a temporary waste crisis is already being interpreted through a political lens. That is the reality of our democracy. What this means is that the waste crisis could easily be exploited by opposition parties to portray the APC as a party with failure inscribed in its DNA. Whether that perception is fair or not is beside the point. In politics, perception often becomes reality if it is not countered with visible action.

While I am not a politician and have no desire to be partisan, I have always advocated good governance irrespective of the party in power. What we all desire is a Nigeria where institutions function effectively and government works for the benefit of everyone, regardless of age, gender, religion or ethnicity. The Lagos State Government should act swiftly because public patience is wearing thin. It is unacceptable that residents should have to cover their noses while walking or driving along major roads in one of Africa’s foremost megacities.

This is a personal appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to demonstrate once again the responsive leadership for which he has often been commended. Lagosians deserve a cleaner, healthier environment, and they deserve it now. However, one must also commend the Lagos State government for how it has addressed waste management challenges in the past, ensuring that the culture of indiscriminate waste disposal by residents was reduced to the barest minimum. It would be unfair to lay the entire blame at the doorstep of the Lagos State government without taking into consideration the pressures associated with governance in a densely populated state where residents can sometimes be very difficult to control.

Most importantly, residents on their part should imbibe the culture of cleanliness and good personal and environmental hygiene by disposing of waste from their households appropriately. The culture of dumping refuse along road medians and drainages should stop. The Lagos State government, on its part, should enforce stiffer sanctions on violators of its waste disposal laws. It is perhaps one of the surest ways of deterring residents from turning the state into a dumpsite.

FIP advocates support for women, informal carers through pharmacist-led care

By

-

02/09/2026

The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has called for stronger action to support and empower women and informal carers through pharmacist-led care.

FIP, through a new statement of policy shared with Pharmanewsonline, disclosed that women, who constitute the majority of informal carers, are largely responsible for managing medicines and providing support to loved ones. However, their personal health and well-being are often overlooked.

Dr Virginia Olmos, co-chair of the policy committee, stated the importance of the policy, emphasising the growing pressure faced by informal carers as populations’ age and more care is delivered in homes and communities.

She explained that pharmacists play a pivotal role in helping carers understand complex medicines regimens, improving health literacy, preventing medicines-related harm and accessing appropriate health services.

The growing complexity of caring responsibilities has resulted to shorter hospital stays, increased use of digital health technologies and the expansion of home-based care.

These developments she said, have created new opportunities, while also increasing the demands on carers, who are mostly responsible for managing multiple medicines, interpreting health information and separating reliable advice from misinformation.

The policy recommended that government could address the challenges by recognising the contribution of informal carers, strengthening policies that enables pharmacist-led services, invest in education and training, and develop sustainable funding models that improves access to care.

It also urges pharmacy organisations and education providers to empower with basic skills needed to support carers precautionary care, medicines optimisation, digital health literacy and proper transition of care.

Ms Paulino Ema, co-chair of the policy committee said supporting informal carers goes beyond improving medicines use, stressing the need to equip them with the knowledge, confidence and support to provide safe care while protecting their own well-being. She added that empowering carers through pharmacists could improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities and strengthen people-centred healthcare systems

Experts seek better contraception access

By

-

02/09/2026

Stakeholders in the health and legal sectors have called for improved access to contraception and professional medical care to prevent avoidable maternal deaths. They made the call on Monday during a memorial and advocacy meeting on preventing maternal deaths from unsafe maternal health practices.

The meeting was held in Lagos to honour women and girls who died from avoidable reasons following unsafe termination of pregnancy.

The meeting was organised by Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC).

It was organised in collaboration with the Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of Nigeria (SOGON) and Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Lagos Chapter.

Participants stressed the need to shift attention from stigma and restrictive interpretations of the law toward life-saving interventions for women and girls.

Dr Olabisi Olanrewaju, Second Vice-Chairman, NMA, Lagos Chapter, said society had failed to prevent unwanted pregnancies despite growing awareness of the problem.

“Have we been able to stop women from having unwanted pregnancies? The answer is no. So, what are we doing about it?” she asked.

Olanrewaju, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, said expanding contraceptive access and providing professional consultations were critical to reducing complications and deaths.

“If we are not stopping people from having sex, then we should ensure contraceptive options are available and accessible.

Also, when pregnancy occurs, women should have access to expert care,” she said.

Dr Adaora Ekekwe, SOGO Project Coordinator in Lagos, identified stigma as a major factor delaying women’s access to appropriate healthcare.

She said many women sought medical assistance only after complications had become life-threatening, stressing the importance of timely intervention.

She said: “The distance between life and death is how soon they get to care. Many cases become critical because women are afraid to seek help early.”

Ekekwe also said some healthcare providers hesitated to treat patients because of fears surrounding possible legal consequences.

She noted that such hesitation occurred even in circumstances where the law permits medical intervention to save a mother’s life.

“In conditions such as severe pregnancy complications, some doctors still hesitate, despite legal provisions protecting them,” she said.

Mr Deji Folorunsho, a legal practitioner at WARDC, attributed the problem partly to policy implementation gaps and restrictive interpretations of existing laws.

Folorunsho cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution, including rights to life and dignity, as important considerations.

He said government had a responsibility to ensure women had access to adequate medical and psychological care.

“Many of these deaths could have been avoided if there were clear policies guaranteeing access to care and support,”

Folorunsho called for sustained dialogue and reforms to reduce preventable maternal deaths and ensure timely access to appropriate healthcare.

The stakeholders also called for the reinstatement and enforcement of clinical guidelines to help healthcare providers manage such cases without fear.

They urged government to strengthen public awareness, improve referral systems and review policies to reflect current realities.

The participants said coordinated action across the health and legal sectors remained essential to protecting women and girls from preventable deaths. (NAN)

Martins Emeje emerges Leadership Public Service Person of the Year 2026

By

-

01/09/2026

The Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), Professor Martins Ochubiojo Emeje, has won the Leadership Newspapers Public Service Person of the Year Award 2026.

His emergence as the award recipient was based on his numerous innovations in natural medicine and his pioneering role in Nanomedicine in Nigeria.

Prof. Emeje was announced in the Leadership Newspapers of Tuesday, 1 September, among other prominent Nigerians, blazing the trail in their areas of endeavours.

Other Persons of the Year are, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, chairman, THISDAY Group and founder of ARISE News; Abdulsamad Rabiu, chairman, BUA Group; Politician of the Year: Senator Abdul’Aziz Abubakar. Governors of the Year 2026 include, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau State; Alex Chioma Otti of Abia State; Agbu Kefas, Taraba State; Comrade Nasri Idris, of Kebbi State, among others.

As a trained pharmacist, his exceptional performance in the field of natural medicine has earned him several international and national recognitions.

In 2025, the World Health Organisation (WHO) appointed him as a member and the first African co-chair of the WHO Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Traditional Medicine. The group advises WHO on the strategic direction for traditional, complementary and integrated medicine (TCIM) at the global level.

The appointment was a recognition not only of Emeje as an individual but also of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), which he heads as the Chief Executive Officer, as well as Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

Emeje studied Pharmacy at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and later pursued his master’s and doctoral degrees at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. His PhD dissertation was nominated as the best dissertation for that year.

Early in the year, he reached the pinnacle of his academic career with his induction as a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science (FAS). He is also a Fellow of other professional associations, including the African Academy of Sciences (FAAS), the Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy (NAPharm), and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN).

Emeje was also a Raman Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India.

He was the founder of the Nanomedical Centre in Nigeria. The facility applies nanotechnology in medicine, using extremely small materials and devices to prevent, diagnose and treat diseases. The professor is an innovator with 10 patents and more than 100 internationally recognised academic papers.

Emeje is an expert in drug development, translational research and regulatory science. He has also proved his mettle as an accomplished scientist in neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), pharmaceutical products and clinical trials.

As an innovator, he is well known for introducing new research laboratory practices and developing university programmes. The new research centre for Nanomedicine he established at the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) has remained a facility of reference, even by international standards.

The quintessential pharmacist led medical outreaches, including free screening and treatment, for more than 20,000 inhabitants of Idu, Gwagwa, Karmo, Pape, Oshafa and Kuje in the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. He also developed a new stable liquid oral dosage form of paediatric furosemide for use at the National Hospital, Abuja, between 2006 and 2008. This was a pro bono compounding of an extemporaneous preparation that was not available in Nigeria at the time for children.

At the University of Uyo, he played a key role in procuring equipment to enhance researchers’ capacity and in engaging stakeholders, including policymakers, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, as collaborators and student mentors.

He is the author of more than 100 peer-reviewed research articles and 25 book chapters and books.

Emeje served as a Principal Investigator on the Large-scale Use of Antibiotics in Livestock in Nigeria and Its Effect on Antimicrobial Resistance and Human Health, an assignment by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The National Council on Health (NCH) unanimously commended and adopted the report for national replication.

Emeje is also active in efforts by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to restore sanity to a sector so essential to Nigerians. He was chairman of the NAFDAC subcommittee that developed guidelines for the regulation of herbal medicines in Nigeria and a member of the NAFDAC Expert Committee on Herbal Medicines.

The committee developed, for NAFDAC’s consideration, a robust guideline for the regulation of herbal medicines and a memorandum to the Federal Executive Council on the need for a policy on bromate in bread in Nigeria. He is also a member of the Federal Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Steering Committee for the Development of a Nanotechnology Policy.

Presently, he is a member of the World Health Organisation Expert Advisory Committee on Target Product Profile for Snake Envenoming. The role involves identifying and developing necessary public-interest WHO Target Product Profiles (TPPs) for snake antivenom products targeting priority snakebite-endemic regions of the world.

.

AI integration crucial to strengthen health research-Experts

By

-

01/09/2026

Dr Oladipo Kolawole, an infectious disease expert, says Africa must strengthen its capacity to own, analyse and develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools from its genomic data to improve disease surveillance and public health outcomes.
Kolawole, an associate professor of Infectious Diseases, made the call at the HVN) on Monday in Abuja.
The symposium was themed: “Shaping the Future of fourth Annual Scientific Symposium organised by the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IPublic Health Landscape through Sustainable Funding, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Innovation.”

Kolawole who is also the Founder of Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso, said Africa could not achieve effective genomic intelligence if AI models continued to rely largely on datasets generated from populations outside the continent.
He said Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), combined with machine learning, could help African countries predict disease trends and antimicrobial resistance, provided the technologies were trained with locally generated data.
According to him, models developed from data outside Africa may not accurately reflect the continent’s diverse genetic and pathogen profiles.
“Models trained elsewhere do not automatically generalise to African populations due to distinct lineages and underrepresentation of our pathogen diversity.
“One size does not fit all; we must own our data and our AI tools,” he said.
Kolawole cited antimicrobial resistance prediction as an example, saying some global AI models predicted ciprofloxacin resistance with about 75 per cent accuracy in England but recorded only about 50 per cent accuracy when applied to African data.
He said the disparity demonstrated the need for African researchers to develop models based on the continent’s own data.
The expert, however, said the absence of comprehensive genomic datasets should not prevent African researchers from beginning the process.
He advised researchers to use available high-quality data to develop foundational models that could be improved as more metadata and genomic information became available.
On concerns about the potential misuse of advanced biotechnology and AI tools, Kolawole said biosecurity measures were already being institutionalised in research settings.
He said researchers and students at his institute were required to sign biosecurity agreements before commencing their engagements.
Kolawole added that researchers must remain legally and ethically accountable for the technologies they develop and use.
The session chairperson, Prof. Alash’le Abimiku, also stressed the importance of accurate metadata collection, recalling difficulties encountered during COVID-19 research in linking genomic information to clinical profiles because of missing metadata.
She urged researchers to incorporate comprehensive metadata documentation and quality control into genomic data collection from the outset.
Representatives of eHealth Africa, KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation and APIN Public Health Initiatives commended IHVN for sustaining the scientific platform.
They called for a shift from temporary emergency-driven public health financing to sustainable institutional infrastructure capable of responding rapidly to future health crises.
(NAN)

WHO to FG: Standardise documentation, regulation of traditional medicine

By

-

01/09/2026

-As NNMDA celebrates 2026 African Traditional Medicine Day

Director-General of NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje, leading staff and guests at the wak

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to invest in the proper documentation and regulation of traditional medicine, arguing that this is the only means of harnessing the nation’s rich natural heritage to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

The global apex health institution also called for stronger collaboration between healthcare practitioners and traditional medicine practitioners, saying this will go a long way toward addressing grey areas in practice while closing the gap between herbal medicines and biomedicine in the country. It also called for the capacity building of traditional medicine practitioners on the prevention and control of infectious diseases, adding that this will ensure patient safety in the practice.

WHO’s Head of Traditional Medicine Unit, Dr Kim Sunchol, made this submission while addressing guests and participants at the commemoration of the 2026 African Traditional Medicine Day, organised by the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) at its headquarters on Kofo Abayomi, Victoria Island, on Monday, 31 August, 2026.

Acknowledging the place of herbal medicines in healthcare, Sunchol affirmed that traditional medicine is widely used across member states, including Nigeria, with a significant proportion of the population relying on it. Recognising this potential, he said WHO launched the Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, which provides a framework for developing traditional medicine through evidence-based practices, stronger regulatory mechanisms and appropriate integration into national health systems.

“Once these systems are effectively established, consideration can then be given to the appropriate integration of traditional medicine and traditional medicine practitioners into the national healthcare delivery system. This would help to harness their contribution to achieving universal health coverage while ensuring that healthcare services remain safe, effective and of assured quality,” he stated.

Speaking on the theme of the celebration, “Reflection on Research and Development of Traditional Medicine Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage”, the Director-General of NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje, underscored the importance of research and development in traditional medicine, arguing that it is essential to achieving universal health coverage. He said any country that underrates or fails to prioritise research and development of its natural resources for local medicines risks medicine insecurity.

Emeje rightly pointed out an important difference between conventional medicine and natural medicine, saying that food can serve as raw material or a building block for medicines.

“Therefore, developing natural medicine can contribute to both food security and medicine security. However, this can only be achieved through sustained research and development.”

Dr Sunchol, who joined the conference virtually, emphasised the important role of government in providing clear policy guidance and establishing appropriate regulatory mechanisms for traditional medicine practitioners and products. He said a national authority or appropriate regulatory structure should be strengthened to ensure the proper licensing and oversight of practitioners.

He reiterated the need for the training of practitioners on infectious disease prevention and treatment, as well as on proper documentation of their medicines, underscoring its importance for patient safety and sustainability of the practice.

According to the WHO official, “Capacity-building programmes should be developed for traditional medicine practitioners, particularly in areas such as infection prevention and control. Incorporating relevant aspects of biomedical training into the capacity-building of traditional medicine practitioners could strengthen their knowledge and improve the safety of the services they provide.”

The NNMDA DG further highlighted the difference between conventional research and development and research and development for natural medicines, saying, “Research does not necessarily mean that everything must be taken to a laboratory. Different forms of research can be conducted within communities.”

For example, he said researchers can engage traditional medicine practitioners, ask questions, gather information, document their practices and curate the knowledge they possess.

He therefore reiterated the need for policies that bring this knowledge into the formal research and healthcare system. Universal health coverage means ensuring access to quality, affordable and appropriate healthcare and medicines when people need them. Traditional medicine has a role to play in achieving this.

Emeje, however, cautioned that no one can particularly project when Nigeria will integrate traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare, asserting that the nation cannot achieve what China and India achieved over thousands of years in just three years.

He said this will only be possible when the private sector and other players express keen interest in advancing the natural heritage of the nation from what it is now.

“The private sector must become more interested in the development of traditional medicine. At present, there is limited private-sector investment because the returns are not immediate.

“In other parts of the world, individuals, families, foundations and private industries invest their resources and a percentage of their profits in natural-product research. When these products are eventually developed, countries such as Nigeria import them.”

He added that the ecosystem around traditional medicine has become more active in the past three years, and that this momentum needs to be sustained for the next 25 years.

“Countries such as China and India have spent thousands of years developing their traditional medicine systems. We cannot expect to achieve the same level of development in three years.”

The 2026 African Traditional Medicine Day, as marked by NNMDA, commenced with a Health Walk led by the DG, with staff and traditional medicine practitioners in attendance, while the keynote address was delivered by a Professor of Medicine and Consultant Endocrinologist, Prof. Andrew E. Uloko, from Bayero University Kano and Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital.

Policy inconsistency threatens Nigeria’s pharma manufacturing, says PMG-MAN

By

Patrick Iwelunmor

-

01/09/2026

The Executive Secretary of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN), Pharm. Frank Mounemeh, has identified policy inconsistency and poor implementation as the biggest challenges confronting pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria.

Mounemeh said that while the Federal Government had introduced several policies aimed at strengthening local pharmaceutical production, inconsistencies in implementation are undermining their intended benefits and increasing the cost of medicines. He made this known in an exclusive interview with Pharmanews ahead of the Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo, where he outlined the industry’s priorities, challenges and prospects for strengthening medicine security in Nigeria.

According to him, medicine security requires Nigeria to take ownership of the entire pharmaceutical value chain, including research and development, supply chain, regulation and end-to-end manufacturing, from active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) to finished pharmaceutical products. “Until we are in charge of, or contribute sufficiently to, the entire value chain of the life science products, pharmaceuticals and consumables we use, access to safe, quality and affordable medicines will continue to be a mirage,” he said.

Mounemeh explained that medicine security is critical to achieving universal health coverage, health equity and inclusivity, particularly in a country where many citizens continue to bear substantial out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. He said Nigeria had the potential to become a major pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in Africa, stressing that strengthening local production would not only improve access to medicines but also contribute to regional economic development.

According to him, the Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo is designed to draw the attention of policymakers, investors and other stakeholders to the strategic role of local pharmaceutical manufacturers in achieving medicine security. He disclosed that the Expo is expected to attract close to 200 companies and between 3,000 and 4,000 participants and visitors from Nigeria, Asia, India, China, Europe and neighbouring African countries.

Mounemeh explained that international exhibitors would primarily showcase inputs required for pharmaceutical manufacturing rather than finished pharmaceutical products. “These are things that support the industry to achieve medicine security and self-sufficiency for Nigeria,” he said, listing machinery, active pharmaceutical ingredients, packaging materials, clean rooms, HVAC systems and laboratory equipment among the expected exhibits.

He said this year’s expo would focus strongly on regional manufacturing and advancing Africa’s pharmaceutical and life sciences sovereignty through localisation. He noted that regional manufacturing could not be achieved without first strengthening local manufacturing capacity.

“We want to play local but become stronger at the regional and African levels. How do we, as a group and as a country, galvanise our capacity and capability to close the medicine access gap in Africa?” he asked. He also identified the African Continental Free Trade Area as an important opportunity for Nigeria to expand its pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and supply other African markets.

The PMG-MAN executive secretary said the Nigerian pharmaceutical industry was already transitioning towards greater self-sufficiency, with local manufacturers increasingly producing medicines and pharmaceutical products that were previously imported. He cited the emergence of beta-lactam manufacturing facilities as an example of how local manufacturers were responding to gaps created by the exit of some multinational pharmaceutical companies from Nigeria.

According to him, the exit of some multinationals created opportunities for local manufacturers to fill market gaps and produce essential medicines locally. Mounemeh also commended the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for implementing the 5+5 policy, which he said had encouraged companies with market authorisations to establish manufacturing facilities in Nigeria or to explore contract manufacturing arrangements with local companies. “Policy is fundamental. With the right policy, many other things will fall into place,” he said.

However, he expressed concern about inconsistencies in the implementation of government policies, particularly those relating to pharmaceutical imports, customs processes and the presidential executive order introduced to support local manufacturing. According to him, manufacturers have experienced difficulties arising from changes in trade platforms, including the transition from the B’Odogwu platform to the National Single Window platform.

He said such inconsistencies sometimes resulted in manufacturers paying charges they were not supposed to pay, thereby increasing production costs. He also identified port congestion and delays in clearing imported pharmaceutical inputs as major challenges facing manufacturers. He explained that delays in clearing raw materials could disrupt production cycles, increase operational costs and ultimately result in higher medicine prices. He further identified energy costs as a major burden on local pharmaceutical manufacturers.

According to him, energy accounts for as much as 40 per cent of production costs for some manufacturers, compared with significantly lower costs in countries such as India and China. “All these costs eventually become part of the cost of the product leaving the factory. And, ultimately, somebody has to pay for those costs. That person is the patient,” he said.

Mounemeh therefore called for greater policy consistency and faithful implementation, stressing that good policies would have little impact if their execution was ineffective. “A policy can be well thought out and beautifully written in black and white, but if its execution is flawed, the desired outcome will not be achieved,” he said.

He called for the extension of the presidential executive order by another two years to allow the policy and its implementation mechanisms to stabilise. He said the government needed to focus not only on access to finance but also on creating a predictable policy environment in which manufacturers could plan investments and production with confidence. He said the Expo would also provide opportunities for young Nigerians and pharmacists to explore careers and investments in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

According to him, many pharmacists remain concentrated in community and hospital practice, while the manufacturing sector offers significant opportunities in areas such as supply chain management, quality assurance, quality control, regulatory affairs, market access, production and engineering. He said the Expo would feature strategic sessions involving manufacturers, regulators, investors, technical experts and other stakeholders, as well as discussions on emerging opportunities such as contract research organisations and bioequivalence studies.

He described the Expo as a comprehensive platform for examining Nigeria’s pharmaceutical manufacturing ecosystem from end to end, with a strong focus on Africa. He said the ultimate objective was to strengthen Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity, improve access to quality and affordable medicines and position the country as a leading force in Africa’s drive towards medicine security and pharmaceutical sovereignty.

Can a doctor or pharmacist be sued for giving medical advice through Whatsapp or social media?

By

Dozie Ifeanyi Atueyi

-

01/09/2026

Case scenario

A patient sends a doctor a WhatsApp message describing abdominal pain and attaches laboratory results. Without a physical examination, the doctor recommends medication and assures the patient that the condition is not serious. The patient’s condition deteriorates, and the patient alleges that the advice delayed proper treatment.

Similarly, a pharmacist recommends medication and dosage through social media based solely on information supplied by a patient. The patient suffers an adverse reaction and alleges inappropriate advice. Both professionals argue that the communications were merely informal.

Legal perspective

Giving medical advice through WhatsApp or social media does not automatically protect a healthcare professional from liability. The key considerations are the nature of the advice, the circumstances, any professional relationship created and whether the practitioner exercised the expected standard of care.

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) regulates medical practice and professional standards. Its Guidance on Social Media and Responsible Online Conduct, issued in 2025, makes it clear that professional standards applicable offline also apply online.

Key considerations include:

Professional responsibility: Online responses to individual medical problems may create professional obligations.

Negligence: Advice that falls below the applicable standard of care and causes injury or loss may give rise to liability.

Diagnosis and prescribing: General health education differs from diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication or changing treatment. Personalised advice carries greater risk.

Limitations: Messages, photographs and test results may be insufficient for diagnosis. Patients should be referred for examination or appropriate telemedicine where necessary.

Confidentiality: Patient records, photographs and other identifiable information must be protected and shared only with appropriate consent.

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) regulates pharmacy practice and professional ethics. Pharmacists must similarly observe professional standards when providing medication advice online.

Determining liability

Liability may depend on whether a professional relationship existed, the practitioner’s licensing status, the information available, whether examination was necessary, the nature of the advice, compliance with professional standards, appropriate warnings or referrals, and whether the advice caused injury or loss.

The central question is whether the practitioner exercised the level of care reasonably expected in the circumstances.

Defences available

A practitioner may argue that the communication was general health education rather than individual advice; sufficient information was available for a reasonable assessment; the patient was appropriately referred; the injury was not caused by the advice; the patient failed to follow instructions; the advice represented reasonable professional judgment; or no professional relationship existed.

Practical advice

Healthcare professionals should not treat WhatsApp or social media as substitutes for clinical consultations where examination is necessary. They should avoid definitive diagnoses based solely on messages or photographs and should not casually prescribe or alter medication without proper assessment.

They should distinguish general health education from individual medical advice, maintain appropriate records, protect patient confidentiality and ensure their professional licences remain current.

Closing insight

WhatsApp may be a convenient communication tool, but it is not a legal shield.

A doctor or pharmacist who provides individualised medical or medication advice online may still be professionally or legally accountable if the advice falls below the applicable standard of care and causes harm. However, not every social-media health comment creates liability. The law distinguishes between general health education and undertaking to diagnose, prescribe or manage an individual’s condition.

Ayuba, Ezeh push for policy influence, healthcare transformation

By

-

01/09/2026

The President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Tanko Ayuba, and the National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Pharm. Ezeh Igwekanma Ambrose, have called on pharmacists to take a more active role in shaping health policies and driving healthcare transformation in the country.

The duo made the call at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Annual International Scientific Conference of the ACPN, tagged “Unity 2026,” held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

Speaking on the conference theme, “From Local Pharmacy Practice to Global Impact: Managing Complex Political Systems,” Tanko described the topic as both bold and timely, stressing that pharmacists must move beyond professional excellence and actively engage in the policy, governance and political processes that shape healthcare delivery.

According to him, healthcare does not exist in isolation but is influenced by public policy, regulation, economics and leadership, making it imperative for pharmacists to participate in decisions that affect the profession and the health of Nigerians.

“The theme of this year’s conference underscores the need for pharmacists to move beyond excellence in practice and actively engage the policy, governance and political processes that shape healthcare delivery. As a profession, we must not only respond to policy but also help define it,” he said.

The PSN president commended ACPN for its unwavering commitment to advancing community pharmacy practice and strengthening pharmaceutical care across the country, noting that community pharmacists remain the most accessible healthcare professionals, providing quality care, promoting the responsible use of medicines and improving health outcomes in communities nationwide.

Ayuba also highlighted the society’s recent collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which culminated in the establishment of a six-member joint committee comprising representatives of both organisations to strengthen professional relationships and provide coordinated solutions to national challenges.

He assured the association of the continued support of the PSN in positioning Nigerian pharmacy practice for greater national relevance and global impact.

Earlier in his welcome address, ACPN National Chairman, Pharm. Ezeh Igwekanma Ambrose, welcomed delegates from across Nigeria and beyond, describing the conference as a historic gathering aimed at advancing community pharmacy practice and strengthening healthcare delivery.

He noted that community pharmacists, who serve millions of Nigerians daily, must transform local innovations and patient-centred care into solutions capable of influencing national policies and contributing to global health outcomes.

“Across the world, pharmacists are assuming greater responsibilities in primary healthcare, disease prevention, vaccination, public health surveillance, digital healthcare and medicines optimisation. Nigeria must not be left behind,” he said.

According to him, community pharmacists possess the expertise, accessibility and commitment required to drive universal health coverage, strengthen medicine security, combat substandard and falsified medicines, improve antimicrobial stewardship and expand access to quality pharmaceutical care.

The ACPN chairman, however, stressed that achieving these aspirations would require visionary leadership, evidence-based advocacy and strategic engagement with governments and other stakeholders within the healthcare ecosystem.

He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to its strategic priorities of advocacy, capacity building, member welfare and digital transformation, noting that these pillars remain critical to building a stronger, more innovative and globally competitive community pharmacy sector.

He called on pharmacists to exchange ideas, build partnerships, challenge conventional thinking and develop practical solutions that will shape the future of community pharmacy practice in Nigeria and beyond.

Time is life, use it wisely

By

Ifeanyi Atueyi

-

31/08/2026

Your Destiny Course — Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi **(1939- 2025**)

Time is God’s most universal gift to humanity. Every person is given the same twenty-four hours each day, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, social status or economic background. You cannot slow it down or speed it up, but you can decide how you use it. What you are today, and what you become tomorrow, depends largely on how you invest your time. The way you manage your time is the way you manage your life, because time is life.

If you take stock of your life today (your health, education, achievements, influence and relationships) you are, in reality, assessing how you have used your time. Likewise, when people make New Year resolutions, they are simply deciding to redefine or reprioritise the use of their time.

Consider a simple example. Instead of spending every Saturday morning reading newspapers or browsing the internet, you could use those hours to exercise, improve your health, write the book you have always wanted to write, learn a new skill or earn additional income. The amount of time remains the same; only its application changes.

It has often been said that time is money. Those who fail to appreciate its value are more likely to waste it. Yet, time is even more valuable than money because, while money can be recovered, time cannot.

Imagine setting aside an hour to read a worthwhile book, only to be interrupted by a casual visitor eager to share office gossip. You may have enjoyed the conversation, but you have lost part of the time you intended to invest in something more meaningful. The conversation itself was not necessarily wrong; it simply came at the wrong time.

The Bible illustrates the danger of wasting time in the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15). He squandered not only his inheritance but also valuable years of his life in reckless living. Although his compassionate father restored him materially, those wasted years could never be recovered. Benjamin Franklin captured this truth when he wrote, “Dost thou love life? Then do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.”

Guard your time carefully. Whenever you allow others to waste it unnecessarily, you are allowing them to take away a portion of your life. Ironically, the greatest distractions often come from people closest to us: family members, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. While relationships matter, they should never continually derail you from your life’s purpose.

No one can please everyone. You must identify your values, establish your priorities and remain focused on what God has called you to accomplish. Your time is your responsibility, and only you can protect it.

This requires self-discipline. The word no must have a place in your vocabulary. Not every invitation deserves acceptance, and not every request requires an immediate response. Learn to evaluate every demand on your time before committing yourself. Remember, you are not omnipresent.

Just as money can lose its value, your time can also be poorly invested. In recent years, the naira has depreciated significantly against major foreign currencies, meaning more money is required to buy the same goods. Likewise, some people spend enormous amounts of time accomplishing very little because they lack clear goals and disciplined planning.

I once had a friend who frequently remarked at the end of the day, “I don’t know what I have achieved today.” Such frustration usually reflects poor planning. Either the day began without a plan, or the plan was never written down, prioritised or followed through.

As you grow older, the decisions you make about your time become even more important. The years ahead become fewer, and your strength gradually diminishes. That is why the psalmist prayed, “Lord, make me to know my end, and the measure of my days, that I may know how fleeting I am” (Psalm 39:4).

Take time regularly to review your life. Ask yourself: What do I still want to begin? What must I complete? What legacy do I want to leave behind? What do I want to be remembered for? Such reflection should become a regular habit rather than an annual exercise.

Do not become trapped by yesterday’s failures or successes. The past cannot be changed, but the future is shaped by the choices you make today. Every hour invested wisely brings you closer to fulfilling God’s purpose for your life.

Use your time well. It is the one resource that cannot be replenished once it is gone

Health commissioner, pharmacists differ over consultancy cadre

By

-

31/08/2026

Pharmacist and stakeholders pose for pictures during the conference

There seems to be no end in sight to the delayed implementation of the consultant pharmacists’ cadre in Lagos State, as the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has expressed disagreement with pharmacists’ demand for the title, urging them to exercise caution in making the request, especially in a medical environment where the position requires more than graduation from an institution.

The pharmacists, on the other hand, have expressed their readiness to resist every attempt to convert the consultancy cadre into a specialist cadre, which they say would negate national and international standards.

Pharmanews reports that the consultant pharmacists’ cadre has since been adopted in several states of the federation, including Edo, Osun, Oyo, Ondo, Niger, Kwara, Adamawa and Katsina, as well as by federal health institutions. It is on record that more than 250 consultant pharmacists have recently been appointed at the federal level, with the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, leading with more than 30 appointments.

In an exclusive interview with Pharmanews at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Pharmacy Week, the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Lagos State Branch, Pharm. (Chief) Olaitan Ogunlade, stated unequivocally that the society would vehemently resist any attempt to reduce the demand to anything less than the consultancy cadre.

He argued that the specialist cadre proposed by the commissioner had never been part of the pharmacists’ discussions, either at the federal or state level, prior to this time.

“For us in PSN (Lagos State), the LASG-PSN/JOHESU negotiations which provided a MOU earlier on is very unambiguous that our demand has always been and will remain consultant cadre and not a specialist cadre,” he stated.

Ogunlade continued: “We have observed with great surprise that there are current attempts to mutilate the configuration of the pharmacists’ consultant cadre to a specialist cadre, which is contrary to the norm both nationally and internationally.”

Aside from the states listed above, the PSN chairman highlighted other federal health institutions where the cadre has been adopted, including the Aso Rock Villa Clinic, NIMR and NIPRD Health Centre.

He asserted that the first set of graduates of the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP), dating back to 1997, had been recognised as consultant pharmacists for more than 20 years in countries such as The Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Ghana, while the cadre was still facing several challenges in Nigeria.

He traced the genesis of the title to the approval of the National Council on Establishment (NCE) in 2011 and its revalidation in 2021. Niger State, he said, blazed the trail in recognising the consultant pharmacist cadre in 2013, followed by other states through the adoption of the circular from the Office of the Head of Service of the Federation (OHSOF).

“We put it on record again that the Pharmacist Consultant cadre was one of the specific demands of the pharmacist stakeholders meeting with Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in December 2018 during his electioneering campaign. It is imperative to state that a Specialist Cadre has never been on the cards at Federal and State levels,” he stated.

Commissioner disagrees

On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Abayomi, maintained a contrary view to the PSN’s position, saying the consultancy title was strictly a medical and legal position that was not open to every health worker in the team.

Addressing pharmacists at the Pharmacy Scientific Week, Abayomi congratulated Fellows of the WAPCP for their professional dedication and commitment in completing the programme but disagreed with their demand for the consultant title, saying they were better addressed as specialists rather than consultants.

“I’ve heard you around the issue of consultants. But there are caveats to that terminology, ‘consultant’, in a medical environment,” Abayomi stated.

He continued: “A consultant in a medical environment is not the same as a consultant outside the medical environment, where a consultant is somebody that has specialised knowledge that you need and so you hire a consultant.

“In a medical fraternity, we have to be careful because it has medical legal implications. A consultant is defined as the head of a medical unit. When a patient comes in, they go into that unit and they belong to that consultant. And anything that happens to them, you are held medically legally responsible.”

The commissioner explained further that his present office as a political appointee did not qualify him to be a consultant, despite his professional training as a physician and haematologist. Rather, he described his professional qualifications as constituting double specialism.

He argued that, given the responsibilities attached to the position of a consultant, the title should be attached to a specific position that a specialist applies for, rather than automatically conferred on Fellows of a professional institution.

He said: “I am a physician and haematologist. I am a double specialist. But at the moment, I am not a consultant. Since I left my position in the public and in academia and became a public servant or a political appointee, I have lost my title to consultant. Because a consultant is a position that a specialist applies for. So, if you’re a fellow, you’re a specialist, you can’t be called a consultant.

“I’m not a consultant physician at the moment unless I apply for a consultant post with my specialist degree. So, we need to be careful about how we appropriate terminologies. There’s nothing wrong with being a specialist. I’m a specialist in internal medicine, haematology and oncology. Fine. I’m happy with that. But if I want to become a consultant, I have to apply for a consultant post.”

Experts say Nigeria not yet serious about medicine security, call for strong political will

By

Ranmilowo Ojalumo

-

31/08/2026

1

Pharmaceutical stakeholders and health professionals.

Nigeria’s inability to achieve medicine security is not due to a lack of laws or regulatory frameworks but to a lack of political will and commitment to implementing existing policies, pharmaceutical experts have said.

The experts cited the country’s continued dependence on imported medicines, foreign exchange volatility, high operating costs, weak supply chain coordination and inadequate patronage of locally manufactured products as some of the persistent challenges confronting the pharmaceutical industry.

They spoke at the plenary session of the recent scientific conference of the West Africa Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP), Nigeria Chapter, on the topic: “Strengthening Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing in Nigeria for Medicine Security, Quality and Sustainable Patient Care”.

The session was moderated by the Managing Director of Pinecrest Healthcare Limited, Dr Chijioke Onyia, while the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Merit Healthcare Limited, Dr Lolu Ojo, and Professor Margaret Ilomuanya of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, were speakers.

Setting the tone for the discussion, Prof. Ilomuanya defined medicine security as more than simply having medicines available, saying drugs must be accessible, affordable, safe and effective, without the threat of counterfeiting.

She said genuine medicine security must also be supported by a knowledge ecosystem capable of continuously developing local expertise and technologies for pharmaceutical production. According to her, Nigeria cannot claim to have achieved medicine security if it continues to depend heavily on imported medicines, even when such medicines are of high quality.

The pharmacy expert pointed out that the country must develop the knowledge and capacity to produce medicines locally rather than depending on external sources for both products and expertise.

While identifying the factors militating against medicine security in Nigeria, Ilomuanya said the country must first demonstrate that it is serious about solving the problem, noting that the current level of commitment required for Nigeria to attain medicine security is lacking.

“Well, the first thing is, I think, as a nation, we are not serious about achieving medicine security,” the professor said.

She argued that Nigeria already has laws covering several of the challenges confronting the pharmaceutical sector, including informal markets, weak penalties, poor supply chain coordination and porous borders. According to her, rather than continuously introducing new legislation, the government should concentrate on enforcing existing laws and back this up with the necessary seriousness.

“We do not need more laws. We need to work with the ones that we already have,” she said.

She also called for better coordination among NAFDAC, the Nigeria Customs Service, foreign affairs authorities and other stakeholders involved in the pharmaceutical supply chain. She added that informal medicine markets could also be brought into the formal system through appropriate legislation and the involvement of pharmacists.

In his remarks, Dr Lolu Ojo supported the professor’s position, saying the first step towards achieving medicine security was for Nigeria to “get serious” about local production. He identified overdependence on imports as one of the biggest obstacles to the development of local drug manufacturing in Nigeria.

Ojo lamented that the challenge in Nigeria goes beyond pharmaceuticals, saying the country’s manufacturing sector remains heavily dependent on imported machinery, equipment and other inputs. According to him, apart from water, almost every other input required to produce medicines is imported.

He said foreign exchange volatility had also caused significant losses for businesses, making it increasingly difficult for manufacturers to plan and remain sustainable. He also identified the high cost of doing business as another major threat to pharmaceutical manufacturing, noting that businesses face expensive borrowing costs and often have to generate their own electricity.

“You will borrow money at 36 per cent, you will have to set up your own electricity factory, you have to generate everything you have to get to yourself,” Ojo revealed.

He further decried inadequate government patronage, calling for stronger government support for locally manufactured medicines. He stressed that Nigeria should adopt strategies used by countries such as India, where the government actively supports domestic manufacturers, arguing that such support could encourage local manufacturers to expand their production capacity and make the country less vulnerable to disruptions in international supply chains.

The speakers also raised concerns about Nigeria’s local manufacturing capacity, with Ojo pointing to the paradox of heavy import dependence despite significant installed manufacturing capacity remaining unused. He specifically said the country must find ways of increasing the local production of essential medicines instead of relying on imports to meet domestic needs.

On regulation, Ojo commended regulators for their efforts but urged them to combine their regulatory responsibilities with measures that facilitate industry growth. He said regulators must also act as facilitators rather than decelerators. According to him, regulatory authorities must have adequate resources to effectively carry out their responsibilities.

“The correct thing is that they are trying. There are things that they need to do, but we need to be asking what resources are available to them to be able to do things that they need to do,” he said.

The experts also advocated the development of a system for monitoring key medicine security indicators, including availability, affordability, traceability, utilisation verification and treatment outcomes. Ilomuanya specifically called for a dedicated mechanism to objectively track these indicators and determine how well Nigeria is performing in its efforts to secure medicines for its population.

The professor particularly called for the expansion of traceability technology across the pharmaceutical distribution system, saying manufacturers, distributors, pharmacies and other dealers should be properly registered and traceable.

According to her, a comprehensive traceability system would not only help sanitise the distribution chain but also create opportunities for pharmacists and young professionals interested in technology.

The professor further called for stronger political will and commitment to local pharmaceutical production, saying local manufacturing should not be viewed only from the perspective of establishing large-scale factories. She suggested that healthcare facilities could contribute to local production through appropriate compounding of medicines, arguing that such initiatives could help build capacity from the grassroots.

She added that hospitals and healthcare centres could become part of a broader local production ecosystem, which could eventually contribute to the development of a stronger pharmaceutical industry.

Dr Ojo re-emphasised that Nigeria does not need another government agency to address medicine security, stressing that several existing institutions already have the responsibility to tackle the problem.

“What we need is leadership that is intentional about achieving medicine security,” Ojo said, adding that Nigeria must make local pharmaceutical production a deliberate national policy and pursue it consistently.

The Merit Healthcare boss called for greater collaboration among industry stakeholders, urging pharmacists to explore the establishment of cottage industries and other forms of collective production.

“Nothing is reserved. We must work for it. Pharmacists and other stakeholders need to join hands to develop local manufacturing capacity,” he said.

Ilomuanya corroborated Ojo’s position on the need for collaboration among pharmacists, pharmaceutical manufacturers, regulators and government, stating that all stakeholders must work together to develop a political framework capable of supporting sustainable medicine security.

According to her, government, regulators and industry should no longer operate in isolation but must collaborate closely to address the challenges facing the pharmaceutical sector. She stressed that genuine cooperation among the three groups would be critical to ensuring that Nigerians have sustained access to quality, affordable and safe medicines.

She specifically charged stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry to actively participate in politics and “be in the boardroom” where policies and decisions are made, noting that such participation would go a long way towards shaping the fortunes of the pharmaceutical industry in the country.

Dr Onyia, on his part, urged the government to demonstrate the necessary political will and provide the needed support towards the nation’s attainment of medicine security, stressing that Nigeria has what it takes to achieve medicine security.

Which natural product is the major active alkaloid historically associated with the antimalarial activity of Cinchona bark?

By

-

31/08/2026

7

Which natural product is the major active alkaloid historically associated with the antimalarial activity of Cinchona bark?

A. Atropine

B. Nicotine

C. Quinine

D. Morphine

2.Which dosage form is designed to release its drug gradually over an extended period rather than releasing the entire dose immediately?

A. Effervescent tablet

B. Modified-release tablet

C. Immediate-release tablet

D. Sublingual tablet

FG, experts demand more investment in precision cancer care

By

Ranmilowo Ojalumo

-

30/08/2026

Chairman, Loveworld medical center, Dr Deola Phillips (middle) with some of the experts at the ISRT 2026 symposium at the Loveworld medical center in Lagos at the weekend.

The Federal Government and experts in cancer care have called for increased investment in radiopharmaceutical therapy, research, infrastructure and manpower development to expand access to precision cancer treatment in Nigeria and across Africa.

The call was made in Lagos at the International Symposium on Radiopharmaceutical Therapy (ISRT) 2026, organised to advance the use of radiotheranostics and precision oncology in Africa.

The symposium brought together experts, clinicians, researchers and other stakeholders to examine developments in radiopharmaceutical therapy and its potential to transform cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Representing the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, the Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Dr David Oladele, said radiopharmaceutical therapy had become an important frontier in modern medicine, offering opportunities for more targeted and effective cancer treatment.

“Radio-pharmaceutical therapy represents an important frontier in modern medicine. By combining advances in nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, pharmaceutical sciences, oncology and medicinal medicine, it offers opportunities for more targeted and effective treatment of cancer while potentially reducing some of the limitations that are associated with conventional therapies,” Oladele said.

He said Nigeria’s response to cancer must go beyond improving access to conventional treatment, stressing the need to embrace innovation, strengthen research and development and build the workforce and infrastructure required for advanced therapy.

“Our initial response must go beyond improving access to conventional cancer services to embrace innovation, strengthening research and development, building a skilled workforce and establishing the infrastructure and regulatory system required for safe and sustainable delivery of advanced therapy,” he said.

Oladele urged greater collaboration between Nigerian and international institutions, saying such partnerships would promote technology transfer, research and the development of local capacity for radiopharmaceutical therapy.

Also speaking, the Executive Minister of Health and Social Services and Chairman of the Board of Loveworld Medical Centre, Dr Deola Phillips, said the development of precision oncology in Africa required sustained investment in knowledge, technology and human capacity.

Phillips said the medical centre had expanded its specialist services to 43 areas and developed capabilities in nuclear medicine, supported by advanced diagnostic equipment.

She said the symposium was designed to share knowledge and build expertise that could be replicated across the continent.

“Knowledge becomes powerful when it is shared and our goal is not just to keep expertise within one institution but to multiply it across Africa,” Phillips said.
The Chief Medical Director of Loveworld Medical Centre, Pastor Dr Emeka Eze, said radiopharmaceutical therapy could significantly change cancer treatment because it targets diseased cells more precisely.

He explained that conventional chemotherapy could affect both cancerous and healthy rapidly dividing cells, resulting in side effects such as hair loss, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and bone marrow suppression.

“These radionuclide materials only target diseased cells. They don’t go after all rapidly dividing cells. So the side effect profile is almost zero and that’s a huge difference,” Eze said.

He, however, acknowledged that radiotheranostics remained expensive, calling for support from foundations and other stakeholders to help patients who could not afford the treatment.

The Director of Operations and Head of Nuclear Medicine at Loveworld Medical Centre, Dr Masha Maharaj, explained that theragnostics combines diagnosis and treatment by identifying a disease pathway and subsequently targeting the same pathway for treatment.

“That’s how theragnostics came about. It was our ability to be able to diagnose a pathway disease, a disease pathway, and subsequently treat the same disease. So, what we see, we can treat,” Maharaj said.
She said the approach represented a major difference from conventional chemotherapy because radiopharmaceuticals could bind to receptors expressed by tumour cells, enabling doctors to target cancer more precisely.

“Whereas in theragnostics, it binds to a particular receptor that is expressed by that tumour. So, it directly targets, it’s called precision oncology, directly targeting that tumour cell, causing the least to no harm to any cell adjacent to that,” she said.

Maharaj disclosed that the centre had treated patients with breast, colorectal, prostate and lung cancers, as well as sarcoma, using the technology. She said radiotheranostics could improve patients’ quality of life and produce significant outcomes even in advanced cases.

“We are finding now with theragnostics that there’s two important factors. One, the quality of life of a patient is improved… And two, we are able to bring a disease from an end stage into improvement and into curative,” she said.

Maharaj stressed the need to train more doctors and healthcare professionals to identify patients who could benefit from the treatment. “Our symposium is meant to also train doctors. More importantly, we want every doctor to know how to handle a patient, how to manage, when to select, when not to select,” she said.

Also speaking, the Executive Minister of Humanitarian Affairs for the LoveWorld Nation and Director of the Chris Oyakhilome Foundation International, Pastor Arinze Emmanuels, said the foundation would support efforts to expand access to advanced cancer treatment through infrastructure, research, training and partnerships.

Emmanuels said Africa should develop its capacity to create and sustain its own healthcare solutions rather than remain dependent on external expertise.

“We believe Africa should not only be the recipient of healthcare solutions, Africa must increasingly develop the capacity to create, to support, and sustain its own solutions,” he said.

He called for stronger partnerships among governments, healthcare institutions, researchers, investors and philanthropic organisations to build a sustainable radiotheragnostic system capable of improving access to precision cancer care across Africa.

PCN seals 430 medicine outlets in Yobe over regulatory breaches

By

-

30/08/2026

1

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) says it has sealed 430 medicine outlets in Yobe State for different regulatory offences, ranging from illegal operations and unauthorised access to medicines to poor storage conditions.

The enforcement activity, conducted during an inspection exercise by the agency at the weekend, covered a total of 601 premises, including 34 pharmacies, 267 patent medicine stores, and 300 unregistered/illegal outlets.

Of the 430 premises sealed by the PCN, 20 were pharmacies, 110 patent medicine stores, and 300 illegal outlets. Furthermore, 21 Compliance Directives were served, the agency said.

The Head of Department, Enforcement, PCN, Suleiman S. Chiroma, who represented the PCN Registrar/CEO, Pharm. Babashehu Ahmed, made the disclosure to pressmen during a briefing after the enforcement exercise.

In accordance with the provisions of the law, Chiroma said 100 per cent of the 300 illegal premises identified were sealed immediately.

He also disclosed that about half of the premises inspected were found to be operating illegally.

“Of the 601 premises inspected during the exercise, 50 per cent were found to be operating illegally,” he said. “These illegal premises were scattered throughout the length and breadth of the state, underscoring the need for the Council to intensify its regulatory activities in Yobe.”

He continued, “Illegal premises accounted for 70 per cent of all facilities sealed due to one or more regulatory breaches.”

Among licensed operators, he noted that only 41 per cent of the pharmacies inspected were in full compliance with regulatory standards, thus highlighting the need to enhance monitoring.

Meanwhile, he observed that 63 per cent of Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendor outlets were found to be compliant.

The PCN enforcement leader highlighted a worrisome finding from the exercise in Yobe, stating that only six per cent of the 601 premises visited were pharmacies, a statistic he said reflects the low level of pharmaceutical care and services in the state.

He noted that the situation could undermine the goal of ensuring access to quality medicines for all citizens.

Highlighting the breaches identified during the exercise, he listed operating premises without a valid PCN licence, poor storage conditions, unauthorised access to controlled medicines, and the training of apprentices among the major violations.

He said these practices, if not checked, pose a danger to public health and constitute risks to national security through the potential diversion of controlled medicines into criminal networks and harm to the population.

Pursuant to its statutory responsibilities, he expressed the PCN’s commitment to ensuring adherence to standards within the pharmaceutical sector.

Consequently, all premises involved in the handling, storage, and dispensing of medicines shall be subjected to rigorous and continuous regulatory oversight. Any breach of extant regulations will attract prompt and decisive enforcement action by the Council.

The public is strongly advised to obtain medicines exclusively from premises licensed by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria. A valid licence, which must be prominently displayed, serves as confirmation of a facility’s authorisation.

WHO declared Uganda free from ebola outbreak.

By

-

28/08/2026

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), has hailed the end of the Ebola outbreak in Uganda following a 42-day period without a new confirmed case.

WHO Director-General, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, commended Uganda for its ability to take decisive action in mitigating the spread of the disease.

“With a focus on preparedness, increased surveillance to find potential cases in health facilities and communities, and careful management of points of entry, countries can keep people and goods moving while ensuring people stay safe, or receive care if they are sick,” he said.

Uganda interrupted local transmission of the disease and prevented wider spread through strong government leadership, early comprehensive action, isolation and clinical care, infection prevention and control, community engagement, and strengthened surveillance at health facilities and points of entry.

H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya, Director-General of Africa CDC, also commended the leadership of Uganda, emphasising the importance of decisive leadership in building trust in communities and providing health services to the public.

Uganda announced the interruption of local transmission on 28 July after completing 42 days without a new locally acquired case. Disease surveillance and other outbreak control measures continued following the discharge of the last imported patient on July 16

During the outbreak, 20 cases of Ebola disease were confirmed in Uganda. Fifteen cases were imported from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), while five were locally acquired among contacts and health workers linked to imported cases.

The organisations urged countries to maintain disease surveillance and testing capacity, rapidly investigate alerts, strengthen infection prevention and control in health facilities and communities, sustain community engagement, and enhance cross-border coordination.

WHO also advised against imposing travel and trade restrictions related to Ebola outbreaks, saying countries should not suspend flights, close borders, or deny entry to travellers from affected countries.

Instead, countries were encouraged to maintain international travel and trade while implementing proportionate public health measures that support early detection, preparedness, and cross-border collaboration.

Both organisations said they would continue supporting the governments of Uganda and the DRC under a joint continental preparedness and response plan.

They added that ending Ebola transmission in the DRC remained a central priority for protecting communities across the region.

60% of child abuse cases involve incest- Edo Govt

By

-

28/08/2026

A Pregnant girl sits outside her home in a rural community

The Edo Government says about 60 per cent of reported child abuse cases handled by its Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development involve incest, particularly father-daughter sexual abuse

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Eugenia Abdallah, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Benin. Abdallah ‌⁠⁠‍‍⁠⁠‌‍‍‌said the development was particularly disturbing, noting that victims of incest handled by the ministry were aged between two and 16 years.

She disclosed the statistic while providing an update on the case of a 14-year-old girl from Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, who recently delivered a stillborn baby.

The commissioner said the girl, whose identity is being withheld, was allegedly impregnated by her father and was currently recovering at a health facility.

She said the Edo Government was providing the girl with medical attention, psychological counselling and psychosocial support, while making arrangements for her continued education and vocational training.

According to Abdallah, the measures were aimed at helping the girl recover from the trauma, restore her wellbeing and provide opportunities for her future development.

She said the girl’s mother had died, after which her father allegedly instructed her to assume the responsibilities previously performed by her mother.

Abdallah said the man subsequently impregnated the girl and had earlier allegedly forced her to undergo two abortions before government intervention in the case.

She explained that prolonged grooming and emotional manipulation allegedly made the girl defend her father when officials intervened, even pleading with them not to arrest him.

The commissioner said the suspect fled after learning of the government’s intervention and remained at large, adding that efforts were ongoing to locate and apprehend him.

Abdallah emphasised the need to protect people who report child abuse, saying fear of retaliation or threats to personal safety could discourage victims and witnesses from speaking out.

She assured members of the public that persons reporting child abuse would be protected and their identities kept confidential to encourage prompt reporting and intervention.

The commissioner said other alleged perpetrators of child abuse handled by the ministry included neighbours, teachers, uncles and brothers, highlighting the need for increased vigilance.

She called for stronger child protection measures in communities, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to pay closer attention to children and report suspicious behaviour.

Abdallah highlighted the role of schools in preventing child abuse and gender-based violence, urging teachers to educate children about personal safety, boundaries and inappropriate behaviour.

She said the State Gender-Based Violence Clubs and Child Rights Implementation Committees were operating in schools to promote awareness and encourage children to speak up about abuse.

The commissioner said the ministry also conducted sensitisation programmes every three weeks across markets, rural communities and faith-based organisations to raise awareness and reduce stigma.

She added that the ministry worked with the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, police and specialised Family and Magistrate Courts in handling sexual and gender-based violence cases.

According to Abdallah, convictions secured in gender-based violence cases in the state attracted sentences ranging from 14 to 21 years’ imprisonment, including life imprisonment.

She urged parents, teachers, community leaders and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected child abuse cases to relevant authorities for intervention and protection.

The Edo Government had earlier raised concern over incestuous child abuse during a bi-monthly briefing organised by the Ministry of Information and Strategy.

At the briefing, Abdallah disclosed the case of the 14-year-old girl, who was then eight months pregnant after allegedly being impregnated by her father.(NAN)

Kidney failure: Expert urges Nigerians to watch diet

By

-

28/08/2026

A medical doctor at a Dei-Dei hospital in Abuja, Dr Ummusalma Faruk, has urged Nigerians to pay closer attention to their lifestyle and dietary habits to general health, warning that several preventable risk factors could increase the risk of kidney disease and eventual kidney failure.

She made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Thursday.

Faruk said conditions such as uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes, unhealthy diet, obesity, physical inactivity and inappropriate use of medications could place the kidneys under prolonged strain.

She stressed the importance of regular health checks and early detection, adding that “kidney disease could develop without obvious symptoms in its early stages.

“Nigerians should adopt healthier lifestyles, reduce excessive salt intake, maintain healthy body weight, exercise regularly and avoid self-medication, particularly indiscriminate use of medicines that could damage the kidneys.”

She advised people with hypertension or diabetes to ensure that the conditions were properly controlled, as prolonged poor control could increase the risk of kidney damage.

She emphasised that prevention and early intervention remained critical to reducing the number of Nigerians who eventually require dialysis or kidney transplantation.

There is rising concerns over the burden of kidney disease in Nigeria and the challenges patients face in accessing and sustaining treatment.(NAN)

Which antidote is used for cyanide poisoning?

By

-

28/08/2026

4

Which antidote is used for cyanide poisoning?
A. Sodium thiosulfate
B. Methylene blue
C. Naloxone
D. Protamine sulfate

Which drug can cause gray baby syndrome?
A. Gentamicin
B. Chloramphenicol
C. Vancomycin
D. Tetracycline

Cancer diagnosis: Pathologists seek stronger investment in digital pathology

By

-

27/08/2026

Participants and dignitaries at the West African Division of the International Academy of Pathology conference.

Experts in pathology and cancer care have called for increased investment in pathology services to strengthen cancer diagnosis and treatment in Nigeria and West Africa.

They also advocated the adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies to improve cancer diagnosis and treatment.

The experts made the call at the 16th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the West African Division of the International Academy of Pathology (WADIAP) on Tuesday in Lagos.

The conference, tagged EKOPATH ’26, has the theme: “Future-Proofing Pathology in West Africa: Integrating Quality, Innovation, and Regional Synergy”.

They stressed that accurate pathology was central to effective patient management.

Prof. Usman Aliyu, Director-General, Nigeria Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), described pathologists as the gateway to cancer treatment, noting that no cancer therapy could be appropriately administered without an accurate diagnosis.

Aliyu explained that pathologists examine tissue and other specimens taken from patients, conduct laboratory tests and study cellular changes to determine whether a disease was cancerous and, where applicable, identify its characteristics.

According to him, any error in diagnosis can result in inappropriate treatment, worsening of the patient’s condition and potential increase in mortality.

He said that NICRAT, established by the Federal Government to provide leadership in cancer prevention, treatment, research and control, had strengthened pathology services through capacity-building programmes and upgrading pathology laboratories with modern equipment

Aliyu said that the interventions were aimed at equipping pathologists, physicians and laboratory personnel with the knowledge and tools required to deliver cancer diagnostic services that met international standards.

On the rising incidence of cancer, he attributed the trend partly to changing lifestyles and an ageing global population.

According to him, the challenge is not peculiar to Nigeria.

He urged Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles, including good nutrition and regular exercise, while avoiding known risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and physical inactivity.

Similarly, Anatomic and Forensic Pathologist, Prof. Francis Faduyile, expressed optimism that greater interaction among pathologists across West Africa would strengthen regional collaboration and improve healthcare delivery.

Faduyile, however, raised concern over the shortage of pathologists in Nigeria, estimating that only about 150 specialists were available to serve a population of more than 200 million people.

He said that the shortage was not peculiar to Nigeria, as developed countries also faced pathologist shortages, but stressed the need to maximise and retain the limited specialists available in the country.

Faduyile, the Senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, identified poor remuneration, economic pressures, insecurity and other unfavourable working conditions as major factors driving health professionals out of Nigeria.

He called for measures to address both the push factors driving professionals away and the pull factors attracting them to other countries, noting that the challenge affected virtually every medical specialty.

The senator also pledged that legislators would collaborate with relevant stakeholders and strengthen oversight to ensure that policies and laws supported better healthcare outcomes for Nigerians.

The Keynote Speaker, Prof. Adekunbiola Banjo, emphasised that pathology remained indispensable to patient management, particularly in cancer care.

Banjo, professor of Anatomy and Pathology at the University of Lagos, explained that advances in medicine had moved treatment away from a “one-size-fits-all” approach towards targeted and personalised therapies based on specific biomarkers and characteristics of individual patients.

She urged Nigerians to ensure that any tissue removed during a medical procedure was submitted for pathological examination to determine whether it contained cancer or another disease condition.

Banjo also called for improved working conditions and incentives to encourage healthcare professionals to remain in Nigeria, noting that specialists were few and largely concentrated in urban centres.

She stressed that equitable healthcare required high-quality pathology services that were accessible to people irrespective of their ability to pay.

Banjo further advocated for stronger cancer screening programmes, saying that early detection significantly improved treatment outcomes.

She identified cervical, breast and colorectal cancers among those for which screening programmes should be strengthened, while also highlighting the role of pathology in diagnosing other diseases beyond cancer.

According to her, pathology also contributes to healthcare planning through autopsies, which can provide evidence on major causes of death, including factors contributing to maternal mortality.

On concerns about the affordability of cancer screening, Banjo said that some screening services were covered by health insurance schemes, including state-based programmes and the national health insurance system.

She urged wider use of available health insurance coverage to improve access to preventive and diagnostic services.

Also, Prof. Edwin Wiredu, Professor of Pathology, University of Ghana Medical School, said that the conference was designed to position pathology for a rapidly changing world.

Wiredu said that the specialty had historically operated largely behind the scenes, in spite of its critical role in patient care.

He called for deliberate measures to attract more young doctors into pathology and retain trained specialists.

Prof. Fatimah AbdulKareem, President, WADIAP, said that the conference’s theme was timely as pathology underwent rapid transformation through molecular diagnostics, digital pathology, artificial intelligence, and precision medicine.

“Our challenge is to ensure that West Africa is not merely a recipient of these advances, but an active contributor to innovation and scientific excellence.

“Future-proofing pathology requires investment in our people, infrastructure, research and education, alongside stronger quality systems and regional collaboration.

“This conference, therefore, provides an important platform to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships and collectively shape the future of pathology in our region,” AbdulKareem said.

She said that pathologists’ work was central to accurate diagnosis, patient care, research, and public health.

According to her, the concept of “future-proofing” pathology requires the specialty to move beyond its traditional role of simply confirming whether a tumour is cancerous.

“Two patients with the same type of cancer may require different treatments because of differences in their tumour characteristics,” she said.

AbdulKareem said that future pathologists must, therefore, be proficient in AI, digital pathology and molecular diagnostics to provide increasingly precise diagnoses and help oncologists determine appropriate treatment and predict patient outcomes.

She expressed concern over the severe shortage of pathologists in Nigeria, saying that available statistics indicated that the country had at some point trained hundreds of specialists, but fewer than 200 were now practising in the country.

AbdulKareem said that the situation was worsening as young doctors showed limited interest in pathology training, while some trained specialists migrated immediately after qualification.

She cited the experience of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where an advertised residency programme reportedly attracted very few interested candidates and eventually had no new resident commenced training.

In spite of the challenges, AbdulKareem said that the profession must continue to train specialists and work with government and other institutions to improve pathology services.

She also rejected concerns that AI would make pathologists redundant, saying that technology would instead complement the work of specialists and enhance their ability to deliver accurate and timely diagnoses.

“Let us therefore, continue to uphold the highest standards of quality and professionalism, embrace innovation, and strengthen the spirit of collaboration that defines WADIAP,” AbdulKareem said.

Dr Martins Momoh, the chairman, Local Organising Committee of the conference, said that to “future-proof” pathology in West Africa meant more than simply adopting new tools to embed uncompromising quality management into every phase of the diagnostic pipeline.

Momoh said that it called for the embrace of bold innovations from digital pathology to molecular diagnostics and tailor them to meet local health challenges.

“Most importantly, it requires regional synergy, breaking down geographic and institutional silos, so that sub-regional collaboration can drive standard setting, research, and resource sharing across West Africa,” he said.

(NAN)

Public health experts urge stronger collaboration with lawmakers

By

-

27/08/2026

Award recipients and dignitaries during the presentation ceremony.

The Society for Public Health Professionals of Nigeria (SPHPN) has called for stronger collaboration between public health professionals and lawmakers to create an enabling environment for effective healthcare delivery nationwide.

The Secretary-General of SPHPN, Prof. Arinola Joda, made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during the sixth SPHPN and 37th Professional Association of Public Health Nurses of Nigeria (PAPHNON) Joint Conference in Abuja on Wednesday.

Joda, who is also chairman of the Scientific Support Committee of the Local Organising Committee, said closer engagement with the National Assembly was necessary because lawmakers made laws guiding healthcare practice.

She said the conference had already commenced consultations with the National Assembly, adding that the engagement was expected to strengthen collaboration between legislators and public health professionals across Nigeria.

According to her, the communiqué to be issued at the end of the conference will contain resolutions, strategies and recommendations aimed at promoting a supportive environment for public health practice.

“We have already intimated some of our prayers, including a closer working relationship between the public health professionals in Nigeria and the National Assembly,” she said.

Joda said the conference, themed “Public Health in a Changing World: Innovation, Equity and Global Health,” was designed to help professionals understand their evolving roles in healthcare delivery.

She said the changing nature of health conditions required continuous evolution and specialisation among healthcare professionals to ensure better outcomes and more effective public health interventions for Nigerians.

“The specialisations are evolving because the conditions, too, are evolving, and each healthcare provider has a specific role to play in the final outcome that a single Nigerian hopes to enjoy when they need our services,” she said.

Speaking on innovation, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), Joda said public health professionals must continually acquire new skills to remain relevant in an increasingly dynamic healthcare environment.

She said that AI had the potential to transform healthcare delivery but emphasised that human oversight remained essential in interpreting results and ensuring interventions suited specific communities.

“AI will not replace you as a professional, but your fellow professional that knows how to utilise AI properly will probably replace you if you are not upskilling yourself,” she said.

Joda expressed concern over the migration of nurses and other public health professionals, saying improved working conditions, opportunities and security were essential for retaining skilled personnel in Nigeria.

She said government had a major role in creating conditions that would encourage professionals to remain in the country while exploring ways to benefit from expertise acquired abroad.

She suggested that professionals in the diaspora could periodically return to contribute to training programmes, universities and continuing professional development while supporting health institutions with equipment and resources.

On health inequities, particularly in rural communities, Joda said SPHPN was working to strengthen the public health workforce through training, capacity building and regular professional updates.

She said increasing the number of skilled professionals would improve the possibility of deploying more personnel to underserved communities and enhancing access to quality healthcare services.

Joda also called for greater involvement of policymakers, local governments and Nigerians in the diaspora in efforts to strengthen healthcare services in rural communities nationwide.
She said the society could further support rural communities through public awareness campaigns, health education initiatives and other innovative engagements tailored to local healthcare challenges.

On post-conference actions, Joda said dedicated sessions by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) would produce recommendations and action plans.

She said the WHO session would focus on deliverables that could be translated into practice across public health disciplines, while Africa CDC would provide updates on activities.

Joda said SPHPN would continue engagements with the two organisations after the conference, adding that the conference communiqué would also be shared with relevant government authorities.

She said the society would engage the media to simplify public health issues and enable Nigerians to better understand their roles in maintaining personal and community health.

“Public health is for all of us.

Medical lecturers to embark on three-day warning strike, Tuesday

By

Our Correspondent

-

27/08/2026

The Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) has announced a three-day warning strike by medical lecturers across the country, beginning Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

The association said the industrial action followed a decision reached at the end of its National Emergency Council meeting.

Acting National Secretary-General of NAMDA, Prof. Aniekan Peter, who disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists in Uyo on Wednesday, said the strike was necessitated by the Federal Government’s continued failure to address what the association described as the legitimate concerns of medical lecturers.

Peter expressed concern over the growing shortage of medical lecturers in the country, compounded by the worsening “Japa syndrome”, which he said was driving professionals out of the country.

He criticised the Federal Government’s push to expand the production of medical doctors without corresponding attention to the welfare and working conditions of the lecturers responsible for training them.

“The desire of the Federal Government to mass-produce medical doctors is antithetical to reality when the welfare of the lecturers who train these students is not prioritised,” the association said.

Among its major grievances, NAMDA cited the failure of the Federal Government to conclude negotiations on the conditions of service for medical lecturers and to formally document their placement and payment under the CONMESS salary structure.

The association also listed the non-payment of the Medical and Clinical Academic Training Allowance (MCATA), Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) and excess workload allowance among the outstanding issues.

According to NAMDA, the warning strike will be “total and comprehensive” across medical schools in the country.

“The warning strike is scheduled to commence Tuesday next week and will be total and comprehensive across medical schools in the country,” the statement said.

The association warned that the planned action could further compound the existing shortage of medical lecturers and disrupt medical education at a time when the country is already grappling with a critical shortage of healthcare professionals.

“At a time when the country is already experiencing a severe shortage of medical lecturers, it is unfortunate that the Government is allowing these avoidable issues to escalate,” it said.

NAMDA therefore urged the Federal Government to return to the negotiating table and urgently resolve the outstanding issues to avert further disruption.

The association called on the government to act before the situation deteriorates and the warning strike becomes unavoidable.

20 cancer warning signs to watch as GLOBOCAN exposes care gaps

By

-

26/08/2026

Early cancer warning signs. Image Source: Medical Lab Scientist

The latest Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) estimates have highlighted widening inequalities in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment globally, with an estimated 20.6 million new cancer cases and 9.8 million cancer deaths recorded in 2024.

The report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), released as the agency marked its 60th anniversary, projects that annual new cancer cases could rise to 34 million by 2050, while cancer deaths could reach 17.5 million if incidence and mortality rates are not reduced.

The findings come as the American Cancer Society (ACS) and cancer experts have urged people to pay attention to unusual changes in their bodies and seek medical evaluation promptly, noting that early recognition of warning signs can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment.

According to the ACS, common signs and symptoms that should not be ignored include persistent fatigue or extreme tiredness that does not improve with rest; unexplained weight loss or gain of 10 pounds or more; loss of appetite; mouth changes such as sores or difficulty swallowing; and swelling or lumps in the breast, lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

Other warning signs include persistent or worsening pain, particularly when it is new or has no known cause; changes in the skin, such as a new mole, changes in an existing mole or a sore that does not heal; persistent cough or hoarseness; and unusual bleeding or bruising without an apparent cause.

The society also lists persistent changes in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhoea, changes in the appearance of stool or blood in the stool; bladder changes such as painful urination, blood in the urine or changes in urinary frequency; fever or night sweats; and unexplained headaches, vision or hearing problems, among other symptoms.

Speaking during an interview session of the Naija Cancer Watch Fellowship organised by Sebeccly Cancer Care, clinical and radiation oncologist, Dr Omolola Salako, said cancer warning signs vary according to the type and location of the disease.

Salako stressed the importance of recognising unusual changes early and seeking appropriate medical assessment. She explained that breast cancer could present as a painless lump in the breast, although some lumps may be painful.

Other warning signs, she said, include lumps around the armpit or collarbone, changes in the appearance or symmetry of the breast, redness or deep dimpling of the skin, and changes to the nipple.

Concerning prostate cancer, Salako identified significant changes in urination, including repeatedly waking at night to urinate, difficulty controlling urine and blood in the urine. She added that severe bone pain could occur when the disease has spread to the skeletal system.

The oncologist, however, cautioned that such symptoms do not necessarily indicate prostate cancer, as other medical conditions can cause similar changes, making proper medical assessment essential.

On cervical cancer, Salako identified abnormal vaginal bleeding as a major warning sign, particularly bleeding after sexual intercourse, between menstrual periods or after menopause.

Recognition of warning signs, apart, she emphasised the importance of understanding the risk factors that increase an individual’s likelihood of developing cancer.

The GLOBOCAN 2024 estimates also reveal profound geographic inequalities in the global cancer burden, driven by population size, ageing, exposure to risk factors and unequal access to prevention and quality cancer care.

China alone accounts for about one in four cancer cases and cancer deaths worldwide, while Europe, with just 9.2 per cent of the global population, accounts for more than 20 per cent of global cancer incidence.

The report shows that standardised cancer incidence rates vary by as much as threefold between countries, while mortality rates can vary by up to fivefold.

The highest incidence rates are recorded in countries including Australia and Denmark, while some of the lowest rates are observed in parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

Cancer mortality rates are highest in Eastern Europe and Melanesia, with particular countries standing out because of specific cancer profiles, including liver cancer in Mongolia and cervical cancer in Zimbabwe.

According to Freddie Bray, head of the Cancer Surveillance Branch at IARC, the disparities reflect not only differences in cancer risk but also inequalities in early detection, diagnosis and access to effective treatment.

He said the variations in cancer outcomes underscore the need for countries to strengthen cancer prevention, early detection and access to quality treatment, particularly in regions carrying a disproportionate burden of the disease.

Which mechanism best explains the antibacterial action of beta-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin?

By

-

26/08/2026

6

1. Which mechanism best explains the antibacterial action of beta-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin?

A. Inhibition of bacterial cell-wall synthesis.

B. Inhibition of bacterial folate synthesis through dihydrofolate reductase.

C. Inhibition of the 30S ribosomal subunit.

D. Inhibition of bacterial DNA gyrase.

6. A weakly basic drug is more likely to become ionized in which environment?

A. An acidic environment
B. A neutral environment exclusively
C. A strongly alkaline environment
D. A lipid-only environment

NAFDAC enforces full ban on sachet alcoholic drinks

By

-

25/08/2026

Various alcoholic drinks displayed at a roadside retail outlet

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control(NAFDAC) has commenced enforcement of the Federal Government’s ban on alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and PET/ plastic bottles below 200ml.

The agency said manufacturers found in violation of the ban have been required to sign an Irrevocable Enforcement Undertakings through the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria(DIBAN) and the Association of Food, Beverage and Tabacco.

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, disclosed this development in a press statement sighted by Pharmanewsonline.

She said the enforcement would involve manufacturers, markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars and distribution centres nationwide.

The DG further stated that the enforcement followed the expiration of the transition periods granted to manufacturers to comply with the prohibition, which took full effect on January 1, 2026.

NAFDAC DG recalled the agency’s policy with manufacturers that products would be destroyed under its supervision, with the manufacturers bearing the cost of the destruction.

She stated that affected facilities would not be permitted to reopen until the agency had verified the dismantling, permanent disabling or reconfiguration of production lines used for the prohibited pack sizes and confirmed compliance with other regulatory requirements.

The agency warned that defaulting companies could face continued closure of their facilities, placement on NAFDAC’s Regulatory Watchlist, suspension or revocation of product registrations, investigative charges, prosecution and other regulatory or legal sanctions.

The prohibition followed concerns first raised in 2018 over the widespread availability of high-alcohol-content beverages in small, inexpensive and easily concealed packages, which NAFDAC said could increase access to alcohol among children and young.

The agency said the enforcement was primarily a public health measure aimed at reducing children and young persons’ access to high-alcohol-content products and curbing alcohol-related harm.

NAFDAC DG urged members of the public to report the manufacture, distribution or sale of alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets or PET/plastic bottles below 200ml through its official communication channels or at the nearest NAFDAC office.

Period poverty: A threat to girls’ health, education – Gynaecologist

By

-

24/08/2026

File photo; Schoolgirls in a Lagos community.

In many poor homes, a girl’s monthly period brings sadness and resentment instead of a normal growth milestone.

This is because for many young schoolgirls, basic sanitary pads are too expensive, forcing them to use unhygienic old rags.

This lack of pads, clean water, and private toilets takes away their basic comfort and personal dignity.

Behind closed doors, period poverty affects school life, harming health, lowering confidence, and causing frequent missed classes.

For millions of young girls across low-income communities, managing monthly periods with dignity remains an exhausting struggle against severe economic hardship and persistent societal stigma.

Dr Chukwubuudom Nwobodo, obstetrics and gynaecology medical officer at General Hospital, Ebutte-Meta, described period poverty as inadequate access to menstrual products, hygiene facilities, waste disposal and education needed to manage menstruation safely, hygienically and with dignity.

He said it arose from poverty, poor infrastructure, including clean water and private toilets, expensive products, taxes on menstrual items and social stigma surrounding menstruation.

According to him, period poverty affects hundreds of millions of girls and women worldwide, particularly those in low-income communities, rural areas and humanitarian settings.

On the impact, he decried that period poverty severely threatened girls’ physical well-being, education, and self-esteem.

He explained that expensive sanitary products, inadequate water infrastructure, and unhygienic alternatives also heightened vulnerability to serious reproductive tract infections and prolonged physical discomfort.

“The constant fear of leakage, pervasive shame, and secretly managing menstruation inflict immense psychological stress, ultimately disrupting classroom attendance and academic progress.

“Period poverty increases physical health risks, including infections, untreated reproductive health issues and discomfort from prolonged use of inadequate menstrual materials.”

He said it affected mental wellbeing through anxiety over leaking or odour, shame, embarrassment and stress from managing menstruation secretly.

“Over time, this can contribute to lowered self-esteem and, in some cases, depression or social withdrawal,” he said.

He said girls’ dignity was affected when they beg, trade or go without products, cannot manage periods privately or face ridicule over leaks and stains.

“These experiences erode a girl’s sense of self-worth and autonomy,” he said.

Nwobodo said girls often missed school during menstruation because of inadequate products, pain or fear of leaks, resulting in significant loss of instructional time.

He said even when present, girls could become distracted, disengaged or reluctant to participate, including avoiding standing at the board because of fear of visible stains.

According to him, repeated absences and reduced concentration contribute to falling grades, while severe cases could result in girls dropping out after menstruation begins.

He said inadequate private, clean toilets with water and disposal bins further compounded the problem, preventing discreet menstrual management during school hours.

Nwobodo said girls without proper menstrual products often resorted to rags, tissue, newspapers, leaves, cotton wool or reused, unwashed cloth.

He said such materials could cause reproductive and urinary tract infections through prolonged contact with unsanitary materials.

He listed vaginal irritation, rashes, sores, fungal infections and risks associated with damp or unclean materials among possible health consequences.

He also warned of toxic shock syndrome if materials were left in place too long or are unsafe for internal use.

According to him, long-term untreated infections could affect fertility and overall reproductive health.

Suggesting solutions, Nwobodo called for Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure, including private toilets, clean water, soap and disposal facilities, particularly in schools.

He advocated menstrual health education for girls and boys, covering anatomy, hygiene and myth-busting, ideally beginning before girls experience their first period.

He recommended trained counsellors or nurses to support girls with pain management and emotional concerns.

Nwobodo urged policy support through removal of taxes on menstrual products, subsidisation or free distribution and inclusion of menstrual health in school health programmes.

He also called for teacher training to enable staff respond supportively rather than reinforce shame, alongside community engagement to change harmful cultural norms.

Nwobodo said menstruation was often treated as shameful or impure, discouraging open conversations and leaving some girls fearful and confused during their first period.

He said that cultural taboos in some communities which restricted menstruating girls and women from cooking, attending religious functions or entering public spaces, reinforcing exclusion, should be discontinued.

He also advised that silence around menstruation, which also left boys and men uninformed, potentially resulting in teasing or lack of empathy, should be stopped.

“Without accurate education, myths about hygiene practices and restrictions can spread, sometimes worsening health risks,” he said.

According to him, stigma also discourages girls from seeking help or menstrual products, even when available, because of embarrassment.

To mitigate the generally unaffordable cost of sanitary products, Nwobodo urged government to remove taxes on menstrual products, subsidise or provide free products in public schools and health centres.

He called for funding of WASH infrastructure improvements in schools, especially rural schools, and integration of menstrual health into national health and education curricula.

For schools, he recommended free or low-cost pads in accessible locations, including school clinics and restrooms.

He also urged schools to provide private, clean toilets with water and disposal bins, train teachers to discuss menstruation sensitively and educate all students.

Nwobodo advocated flexibility for pain-related absences without penalty and encouraged parents to discuss menstruation openly with daughters and sons before it begins.

He urged families to normalise periods as a healthy, natural process rather than something shameful.

For organisations and NGOs, he recommended distributing reusable pads or menstrual cups as sustainable, cost-effective solutions.

He also called for community education campaigns to reduce stigma and partnerships with local governments and schools to identify and reach vulnerable girls.

(NAN)

NCDs: Don seeks greater role for nutritionists

By

-

24/08/2026

A Professor of Public Health Nutrition, Oyediran Oyewole, has called for greater involvement of dietitians and nutritionists in managing Non-Communicable Diseases.

Oyewole, of the Department of Health Promotion and Education, University of Ibadan, made the call in Lagos at the weekend.

He spoke while delivering the keynote address at the 2026 Professional Retreat organised by Lagos State Health Service Commission dietitians and nutritionists.

The two-day retreat, held at Lagos Island Maternity, has the theme: ‘Institutionalising Excellence in Dietetics and Nutrition Services: Strengthen Systems, Standards and Sustainability.’

The don said nutritional management should form part of comprehensive patient care, particularly for conditions requiring dietary adjustments, except during medical emergencies.

He said many patients depended heavily on medications because dietary professionals were often excluded from routine evaluations and healthcare visits.

Oyewole stressed the need for greater synergy among healthcare professionals to ensure patients received comprehensive and effective care.

He noted that some routine medications could produce side effects, particularly when used over long periods, making nutritional support important.

“Diseases are tied to our daily behaviour, and this has to do with what we fail to do or what we do.

“Most diseases people battle with can be traced to their dietary behaviour, and this is where nutritional management in patient care is key.

“For instance, individuals with NCDs are linked to behaviours and lifestyles that require appropriate dietary guidance, rather than medication that may have long-term effects,” he said.

Oyewole urged dietitians and nutritionists to make themselves visible within healthcare settings and intervene whenever their expertise was required.

He said their involvement would help ensure comprehensive patient care and improve overall health and wellbeing.

The don also urged healthcare institutions to recognise dietitians and nutritionists as important members of multidisciplinary teams.

He said their expertise was particularly important in managing conditions associated with nutrition, diet and lifestyle.

Speaking, Dr Olufemi Omololu, a permanent secretary in Lagos State Health Service Commission, urged nutrition professionals to embrace technology, conduct research and share knowledge.

Omololu spoke on ‘Building Professional Excellence for Sustainable Health Outcomes’, urging dietitians and nutritionists to contribute more actively to strengthening the health system.

He said professionals should not restrict themselves to traditional roles but should function effectively as team players and managers within the healthcare system.

The permanent secretary stressed that excellence was not merely about individual performance but about translating professional efforts into positive patient outcomes.

“Excellence is not just about you doing well within your own sphere; it is about the impact of what you are doing on patients,” he said.

Omololu said developing a culture of excellence required strong leadership, adequate financing, teamwork, monitoring and continuous improvement.

He reiterated the commission’s commitment to addressing manpower shortages and establishing nutrition departments in hospitals where they were unavailable.

The former Medical Director of Lagos Island Maternity also pledged continued support for professional training.

He said the commission would provide standardised tools and equipment required to strengthen nutrition departments across government-owned hospitals.

.

(NAN)

NAFDAC DG to deliver keynote address, as Ogun NAIP holds week

By

Ranmilowo Ojalumo

-

24/08/2026

NAFDAC DG to deliver keynote address, as Ogun NAIP holds week — Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye and Mrs SarahPearl Kolade

The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, is expected to deliver the keynote address at the third annual NAIP Week of the Ogun State Chapter of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP).

According to the Chairman of the Ogun State Chapter of NAIP, Pharm. Mrs SarahPearl Kolade, the Ogun NAIP week is scheduled for 21 to 25 September, 2026.

The theme of the event is “Production, Innovation and Quality Standard; Collaboration and Advancement in Technology of Pharmaceutical Industry in Nigeria”. The sub-theme is “Safeguarding Medicines: Advancing Innovation, Compliance and Patient trust”. The programme, which will commence at 8am daily, will be held at the Banquet Hall, Merry Jay Events Place and Hotel, 106, Ijoko Road, Sango-Ota, Ogun State.

The chairman disclosed that the week-long event is expected to bring together key stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and health sectors, adding that the five-day programme will feature professional engagements, medical outreach, pharmaceutical industry visits, exhibitions, advocacy against drug abuse, free drug donations and social activities.

While giving the rundown of the programme, Pharm. Mrs SarahPearl Kolade said the first day will feature the arrival and registration of delegates and guests, followed by a medical outreach and an excursion to three pharmaceutical companies in Sango-Ota and the day will end with a welcome party and cocktail for delegates and guests.

Day two will feature a Pharma Summit Seminar and an exhibition of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical products. Participants will also take part in a Cultural Night.

The third day will feature the official opening ceremony, exhibition of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical products, the NAIP Ogun State Project Luncheon and two plenary sessions, before the programme moves into a Gala Night.

On the fourth day, members of the association will hold their Annual General Meeting, while the exhibition of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical products will continue. The day will also feature an advocacy programme against drug abuse and illicit drug use at the Ibara Customary Centre, Abeokuta, followed by a Dinner and Award Night.

The programme will end on September 25 with a World Pharmacists Day celebration involving free drug donations at Sango-Ota Bus-stop, Ogun State, before the departure of delegates and guests.

The event is expected to attract several prominent stakeholders in the health and pharmaceutical sectors, including the Ogun State Commissioner of Health; Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Ministry of Health; Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Hospital Management Board; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health; Executive Secretary, Drug Management Board; and the State Coordinator of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria in Ogun State.

Others expected are the State Coordinators of NAFDAC offices in Ogun 1, Abeokuta, and Ogun 2, Sango-Ota; the National Chairman of NAIP; the Onijoko of Ijoko Kingdom and his cabinet; as well as other reputable icons and managing directors in the pharmacy profession.

With the NAFDAC Director-General scheduled to deliver the keynote address, the programme is expected to provide a platform for industrial pharmacists and other stakeholders to engage in professional activities while also extending their interventions to the wider community through medical outreach, drug abuse advocacy and free drug donations.

A drug follows first-order elimination kinetics

By

-

24/08/2026

9

A drug follows first-order elimination kinetics. If its half-life is 6 hours, approximately how long will it take for its plasma concentration to decrease from 80 mg/L to 10 mg/L?

A.24 hours

B.18 hours

C.30 hours

D.12 hours

2.Which pharmacokinetic process involves the movement of a drug from the site of administration into the systemic circulation?

A. Distribution

B. Metabolism

C Absorption

D Excretion

May & Baker boss calls for urgent reforms to unlock pharma investment

By

-

21/08/2026

L-R : Mr Godwin Obiakor, head, internal control and compliance M&B ; Mrs Emem Essien, head, human capital development, M&B ; Pharm. Patrick Ajah, MD/CEO M&B and Awardee ; Pharm. Akinjide Adeosun, founder, The Akinjide Adeosun Foundation (AAF) ; Ms Ese Eruotor ,business & people services consultant, United Kingdom and Mr Ayodeji Aboderin, executive director, finance M&B, at the 2026 AAF’s Excellence In Leadership Award Ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria..

The Managing Director, May &Baker Nigeria Plc, has called on the Federal Government to enact urgent reforms in the areas of security, power supply and infrastructure, to make the country a conductive environment for pharmaceutical investment.

Ajah, who underscored the importance of a conducive environment for investors, decried the present state of the nation, saying Nigeria is far from what it used to be, a situation that calls for immediate reforms in affected areas.

“Nigeria needs to be different from what it is now, especially in the area of insecurity. ” he said.

The May & Baker boss made this disclosure at a media parley in his office during the presentation of the 2026 Excellence in Leadership Award plaque to him by the Akinjide Adeosun Foundation.

The Excellence in Leadership awardee explained what leadership is about in the pharmaceutical company, citing examples of several calls he received on a daily basis from interested investors, but said the reality of the state of the nation makes them think otherwise.

“I currently have no fewer than 10 companies from America and Europe that want to explore partnerships with us,” he said. “There is significant interest in investing in Nigeria, particularly because Europe is relatively stagnant and America is facing economic challenges.”

He continued, “For investors looking at Africa, Nigeria remains a major destination. This is an opportunity for Nigeria to attract investment. However, when we explain the challenges, including infrastructure and insecurity, some investors become uncertain about whether investment is still viable.”

The May & Baker exceptional leader charged the government to rise to the occasion in resolving the bottlenecks to pharmaceutical investment as identified, in order to take advantage of the current interest in the country to build the Gross Domestic Product.

According to him, the government needs to do as much as possible to address insecurity and infrastructure challenges. Fortunately, he said some investors who have previously done business in Nigeria understand that Nigerians always find a way to overcome challenges, and they remain interested.

Narrating how unsafe the country was at a time, he said, “There are some parts of the country where we do not allow our representatives to travel because of insecurity. At the peak of the insecurity, for instance, there were areas in Jos where it would have been irresponsible to send our representatives because they could have been targeted.”

He emohasised the importance of arresting the situation in good time before it gets out of hand.

“The issues of power, infrastructure and all of that are a problem. In fact, the next one we are seeing now is people, most of our pharmacists, are running out of the country. So, you keep looking for a good person to hold the position; it is difficult.

“And I think these are things the country needs to know. The leaders of the country need to know. If countries keep collapsing, then we are not going anywhere,” he reiterated.

Asked how soon he felt the government could respond to these challenges, he expressed optimism in the Nigerian government and people, linking it with faith in God, which he described as a core value of the company, noting that the combination of those elements can fast-track the needed change in the country.

“However, we must continue making progress and address the challenges of insecurity and infrastructure. A conducive business environment is essential for attracting investment. Nigeria needs to be different from what it is today, particularly in the area of security,” he asserted.

Speaking on the performance of May & Baker products in the market, he said they had done very well over the past year, while aiming at higher targets in the nearest future.

“We recently concluded our strategy session, although I cannot disclose the details yet because we are still awaiting feedback.”

Looking at the last five years, he disclosed that the company had quadrupled its revenue, while he had challenged his team that, over the next three years, they should double their current revenue, and they believe it is achievable.

“The key question is where we should invest, given the current economic conditions. I believe the future is bright because the gap created by the exit or downsizing of many multinational pharmaceutical companies in Nigeria has not yet been fully filled,” he said.

Lagos offers free healthcare services to ikotun traders

By

-

21/08/2026

The Lagos State Government in collaboration with Alimosho General Hospital, Igando, has taken free health screening, medical consultations and preventive healthcare services to traders at Ikotun Market.

The outreach recorded an impressive turnout of market men and women, providing an opportunity for traders who may often lack the time or resources to visit healthcare facilities to access professional medical care within their business environment.

Speaking at the event, the Medical Director/Chief Executive Officer of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr Akinyele Akinlade, explained that the outreach was deliberately organised to meet people where they are, stressing that good healthcare goes beyond treating illnesses after symptoms have become apparent.

Dr Akinlade noted that some people live with health conditions without being aware of them because the conditions may not initially produce noticeable symptoms. He therefore emphasised the importance of regular health checks, early detection and healthy lifestyle choices.

Revealing that plans are underway for the establishment of a new clinic that would provide more convenient and premium healthcare services for individuals who can afford them, the Medical Director urged the market men and women to make their health a priority, noting that early detection of health conditions facilitates timely treatment and helps prevent complications.

The Chairman, Friends of Alimosho General Hospital, Dr. Rukayat Ajibola-Bakare, said the initiative was designed to extend healthcare support to members of the community who may face financial constraints in accessing regular medical care.

She dispelled the misconception that medical check-ups are only necessary for educated people or those who are sick, emphasising that “healthcare is for everyone”.

Also speaking, the Vice Chairman and Supervisor for Health, Igando-Ikotun LCDA, Hon. Prince Adewunmi Dada, commended the Lagos State Government and the hospital management for the initiative. He also appreciated the traders for their impressive participation.

Hon. Dada encouraged the traders to enrol in the Ilera Eko Health Insurance Scheme, describing it as an affordable means of accessing healthcare and urging residents not to wait until illnesses become severe before seeking medical attention.

The medical team subsequently attended to participants through various screening and consultation services, reaffirming the hospital’s commitment to taking quality healthcare closer to the people

Anyakora appointed ACFR distinguished fellow

By

Patrick Iwelunmor

-

21/08/2026

The African Council on Foreign Relations (ACFR) has appointed Professor Chimezie Anyakora, CEO of Bloom Public Health, as a Distinguished Fellow in Sustainable Health Diplomacy and Strategic Diplomacy. This is in recognition of his longstanding contributions to pharmaceutical quality, public health and the strengthening of health systems across Africa.

According to the Council, Anyakora brings decades of expertise to its global mission and will contribute to advancing Africa’s leadership in sustainable health governance and strategic international cooperation.

As a Distinguished Fellow, he will support the development of high-impact strategic initiatives and contribute to ACFR’s diplomatic engagement with African, European and Canadian institutions, as well as multilateral organisations, with a focus on resilient development, sustainable health systems and excellence in global governance.

Commenting on the appointment, ACFR Global Executive Chair, Dr Jean Narcisse Djaha, said Anyakora’s work had strengthened the foundations of Africa’s public health architecture and promoted a vision of sustainable, excellence-driven health governance.

He said the appointment reinforced the Council’s commitment to building institutions and strategic partnerships capable of elevating African leadership in global diplomacy and strengthening the continent’s voice in international affairs.

“I am honoured to join the African Council on Foreign Relations as a Distinguished Fellow. Strengthening Africa’s health systems is not only a scientific imperative, it is a diplomatic responsibility,” Anyakora said, expressing his readiness to contribute to ACFR’s vision of a continent that leads with excellence, resilience and strategic purpose.

He said sustainable health diplomacy had become central to Africa’s future, stressing that the continent must develop greater capacity to negotiate, innovate and influence global health policies and outcomes.

“Through this fellowship, we will deepen the continent’s capacity to negotiate, innovate, and shape global health outcomes that reflect African priorities,” he said.

The appointment comes amid growing efforts by African countries to strengthen health diplomacy and international partnerships in response to challenges involving health security, pharmaceutical manufacturing, access to quality medicines and the resilience of national health systems.

Anyakora, who is widely recognised for his work in pharmaceutical quality and public health, is expected to bring his experience to ACFR’s efforts to position health as a critical instrument of Africa’s diplomatic and development agenda.

Over 3m illegal pharmaceutical premises in Nigeria, PSN warns

By

-

20/08/2026

-Calls for a stronger One Health Ecosystem

Over 3m illegal pharmaceutical premises in Nigeria, PSN warns — L-R: Elder Deji Osinioki; Pharm. Uche Nwana, MD Sylken Limited; and Chairman, Lagos PSN, Pharm. (Chief) Olaitan Ogunlade, at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Lagos Pharmacy Week.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has raised the alarm over the increasing number of unregistered pharmaceutical outlets in the country, saying there are over three million such premises in Nigeria, which invariably increases the vulnerability of Nigerians to fake and adulterated medicines.

The society attributed the development to what it described as a wrong decision taken under the leadership of the late Olikoye Ransome-Kuti at the Federal Ministry of Health, which delegated the issuance of Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors’ (PPMV) licences to Local Government Areas. This implied that Nigeria had 774 licensing authorities for the issuance of PPMV licences at the time.

The Chairman, Lagos State Chapter of the PSN, Pharm. (Chief) Olaitan Ogunlade, raised this concern at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Pharmacy Scientific Week of the association, holding from 18 to 22 August at the Detutu Event Centre, Ogudu, Lagos.

Ogunlade, who pointed out the genesis of the proliferation of these illegal premises, said, “This remains the foundation for the explosion of unregistered pharmaceutical premises in Nigeria, now estimated to be over three million, with less than 50,000 registered premises in Nigeria, inclusive of manufacturers, importers, distributors, retailers and PPMV licence holders.”

To rectify this negative development, Ogunlade called on the leadership of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) to immediately inaugurate the Pharmacy Council Governing Board in alignment with the existing PCN Act, as the government has done with some sister regulatory councils in the health sector in recent days.

“The PSN (Lagos State), on behalf of pharmacists, calls on the FMOH to immediately inaugurate the PCN in alignment with the existing PCN Act, like the government has done with some sister regulatory councils in health in recent days,” he stated.

He buttressed the need to incorporate more professionals into the PCN Governing Council, while condemning the present composition of the board, which, he said, involved an overwhelming majority of community stakeholders to the detriment of professionals with the expertise and legitimacy to regulate professional responsibilities.

He said such a composition exposes Nigerians and makes them susceptible and vulnerable to practices that compromise Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP), a global benchmark that defines pharmaceutical excellence.

According to the PSN chairman, it is appropriate that the membership of the PCN Governing Council should include an experienced chairman, with members drawn from the PSN, including registered pharmacists, academia and directors of pharmaceutical services. He said this group, apart from the expertise they bring, sustains the PCN financially through substantial payments for various categories of licence fees.

He added that representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the PCN Registrar/CEO, the Director-General of NAFDAC and representatives of pharmacy technicians should also be included in the PCN Governing Council.

Delivering the keynote address, which centred on the theme of the conference, “One Health, One Pharmacy, Connecting Sectors, Transforming Health,” Pharm. Babashehu Ahmed charged all pharmacists to play critical roles in ensuring the attainment of One Health and One Pharmacy, where every stakeholder works consciously to promote a healthy ecosystem and achieve good patient outcomes.

The PCN Registrar, who vividly demonstrated the interconnectivity of the health ecosystem, said the issue was not about pharmacists alone, but involved medical doctors, veterinary doctors, the agricultural sector, climate change, antimicrobial resistance and the food value chain.

He said all stakeholders must accept responsibility for making One Health a reality. He also warned that if all hands were not on deck to make a healthy ecosystem a reality, it would be very difficult to curb a crisis once it erupted.

“The fact is that when the crisis happens, it is one crisis. It will not stop in Lagos. Neither will it stop in Niger State, where I come from. Nor will it stop in Abuja, where the President sits. It’s going to be one crisis. And that is why we must all be concerned.

“And when it comes, of course, it’s going to affect so many people. We are in many phases. And this could come from a pandemic. It could also come from climate disruption. It could come from unsafe food. Antimicrobial resistance are converging into a single interconnected challenge. And not a single sector holds the answer alone.

“Pandemics, they are outbreaks that are crossing geographical borders. And this was why I spoke to sectoral boundaries earlier, and once it happens, it will not look at where you sit.”

Ahmed further emphasised that, irrespective of one’s professional, social or political class, there are no boundaries in a crisis, which explains the need for stakeholders to be proactive about One Health in Nigeria.

Lagos deploys mobile clinic to underserved Badagry community

By

-

20/08/2026

Lagos deploys mobile clinic to underserved Badagry community — Stakeholders at the commissioning of the mobile clinic.

As part of efforts to bridge gaps in healthcare access in hard-to-reach communities in the Badagry Division of Lagos State, the Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA) has deployed and commissioned the Eko Social Health Alliance (EKOSHA) mobile clinic for the use of the residents in Erikiti Oglo and its environment.

The EKOSHA mobile clinic was commissioned on Wednesday at Erikiti Oglo, Badagry, by the Permanent Secretary, LASHMA, Dr Emnanuella Zamba, and other stakeholders, for the vulnerable population to access quality and affordable healthcare without being pushed into financial hardship.

Speaking at the occasion, Zamba said that the rural health scheme was designed to bridge the gap for healthcare challenges faced by vulnerable residents in hard-to-reach communities, particularly where a Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) is not available or where the existing PHC is undergoing reconstruction or renovation.

Dr Zamba disclosed that the deployment of the EKOSHA mobile clinic to Erikiti Oglo and its environment has clearly demonstrated the practical commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to improving the health and wellbeing of Lagos residents as well as taking healthcare access closer to residents in hard-to-reach communities in the State.

The mobile clinic, she said, will be in the community every Tuesday, 8 am – 5 pm, and will provide general consultations via telemedicine services, treatment of common illnesses, management of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and asthma, treatment of childhood illnesses, basic laboratory investigations, health education, counselling, as well as drug dispensing, among others.

Dr Zamba added that residents can also do their vital checks such as Blood Sugar. BP, weight and pulse through the mobile clinic. She reminded the residents that the mobile clinic is not a permanent one as it would be withdrawn once the community has a functional PHC or facility.

The permanent secretary recalled that during the flag-off of the first phase Rural Health Scheme at Agboyi – Ori Omi on 11 November, 2025, the agency promised to provide mobile clinics at five different hard-to-reach locations in the state. She said, “today, two communities out of the five locations have been provided with mobile clinics, and soon, the three others will be provided”.

She applauded the Baale of Erikiti Oglo, Chief Baale Abila Sedowhe Azonagbo, for his support in making the intervention possible, bringing healthcare closer to the people at the grassroots and moving Lagos State closer to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Zamba urged the people of Erikiti Oglo and its neighbouring communities to take ownership of the programme, embrace the initiative, register on the Scheme, utilise the mobile clinic and give constructive feedback to the Agency on how to continually improve the medical intervention.

The Permanent Secretary promised the residents that the agency would still increase the number of visits by the mobile clinic once the communities can increase the number of beneficiaries on the scheme to 5,000.

Responding on behalf of the Baales in the communities, the Baale Erikiti Oglo, Chief Baale Abila Sedowhe, thanked the Lagos State Government and the Permanent Secretary, LASHMA, Dr Emmanuella Zamba, for bringing the mobile clinic to the people in Erikiti Oglo and its environment.

He said, “pregnant women, nursing mothers and their children, including the elderly, usually travelled long distances to access healthcare services, but now, with the mobile clinic, they would be relieved of travelling long distances to seek medical attention.”

The Chief Baale, who applauded his colleagues for attending the event, implored other Baales to ensure that their residents enrol on EKOSHA and utilise the mobile clinic instead of self-medication.

Other dignitaries at the event included the Permanent Secretary, Health District V, Dr Oladapo Ashiyanbi; Baale Agbovipe, Chief Baale Peter Tonda; Baale Tohon, Chief Baale Sotin Adeoye; and Baale-elect, Zinvie, Chief Abiye Hunsitode, who was represented by Chief Abba.

DRC Ebola outbreak far from being over-WHO

By

-

19/08/2026