Prof. Chinedum Peace Babalola, former vice-chancellor of Chrisland University, has highlighted the importance of digital tools and pharmaceutical innovation in supporting Nigeria’s journey towards Universal Health Coverage.
Babalola, who was the keynote speaker at the 98th Annual PSN Conference, holding in Kano, themed “Enhancing Pharmaceutical Innovation for Universal Health Coverage”, urged pharmacists to adopt cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning and AI to revolutionise drug discovery, improve access to quality medicines, and drive affordability for Nigerians.
According to her, the Pharmacy profession must move beyond traditional roles, emphasising that product development is as important as patient care: “We are not trained to just be in the hospital. You need to have the product before you can talk about care.”
Prof. Babalola outlined how in-silico methods (computer simulations) are accelerating drug research, saying: “There are innovative ways pharmacists can use machine learning and AI tools for drug discovery, You can now use computer software to simulate and get the best molecule. We don’t need to test a thousand molecules anymore.”
She noted that although Africa still lacks full infrastructure for drug development, local researchers can begin the process by focusing on natural products and early-stage discovery, and later attract partnerships: “We can start discovering here … once innovation begins, others will take it up and move it forward.”
On the theme of Universal Health Coverage, Prof. Babalola stressed the need for pharmacists to proactively engage and collaborate with government and industry: “Nobody is going to call you to the table for discussion if you don’t call yourself. Pharmacists must identify the gaps and develop digital solutions for challenges like drug distribution.”
She also encouraged the PSN, universities and companies to create opportunities for technology-driven innovation among students: “Let’s involve pharmacy students. Give them challenges as competitions. They are tech-savvy and creative.”
Looking ahead, Prof. Babalola said that sustaining innovation requires strategic positioning, ethical standards and partnership building: “We must understand our strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities. We have brilliant minds. Where we face threats, we should collaborate – even befriend the government”
The 98th PSN Conference in Kano brings together pharmacists, industry leaders, regulators and academics under the banner of reinforcing pharmacy’s role in innovation, access and healthcare transformation.
