Dr (Mrs) Ejiro Oyovwin Foyibo is an eminent community pharmacist, with over 28 years of experience. A native of Delta State, she has dedicated her career to providing quality pharmaceutical care while also contributing significantly to leadership within the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN). In this engaging interview with Temitope Obayendo, the PSN presidential aspirant shares how passionate she is about service and providing solutions to the many challenges facing pharmacists and the pharmacy profession. Excerpts:
As the immediate past vice-president (South) of the PSN, what informed your decision to vie for the position of PSN president?
My decision to run for the presidency stems from a deep commitment to the PSN’s mission. I have a strong passion for service and problem-solving, and I always aim to inspire others. After over 11 years of serving on NEC/Council and working with four past presidents, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the Society’s challenges and opportunities. I believe my experience equips me to provide effective leadership and foster collaboration. My vision is to drive initiatives that align with our goals, promoting innovation and inclusivity so that the PSN continues to thrive and serve its community.
What specific plans do you have to strengthen the role of pharmacists in Nigeria’s healthcare system, particularly in primary healthcare delivery?
To strengthen the role of pharmacists in primary healthcare, I plan to advocate for the integration of pharmacists into multidisciplinary healthcare teams. It is essential to work with policy makers to establish this role in primary care.
Additionally, I aim to enhance training programmes for pharmacists, equipping them with skills to manage chronic diseases, offer counselling, and promote health education. By increasing community engagement, pharmacists can play a more visible role through health fairs and outreach programmes.
I will also promote collaboration between pharmacists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care and improved patient outcomes. Expanding telepharmacy services is another priority, as it would increase access to pharmaceutical care in underserved areas. Furthermore, I would work towards incorporating primary healthcare services, such as immunisations, into the pharmacy curriculum by collaborating with relevant regulatory bodies.
In the face of increasing regulatory challenges and drug counterfeiting in Nigeria, what strategies would you implement to collaborate with regulatory bodies such as NAFDAC and PCN and ensure the effective enforcement of policies to curb counterfeit drugs and promote patient safety?
Addressing regulatory challenges and drug counterfeiting requires a multi-faceted approach. I would focus on strengthening partnerships with regulatory bodies such as NAFDAC and PCN through regular communication and collaborative meetings. Developing training programmes for pharmacists to help them recognise counterfeit drugs and understand regulatory requirements is crucial in empowering them as frontline responders. Public awareness campaigns are also vital, and I would involve community pharmacists in educating the public on how to identify legitimate medications and the dangers of counterfeits.
Additionally, I will create streamlined reporting mechanisms for pharmacists to report suspected counterfeit drugs promptly. Advocacy for stricter penalties against counterfeiters and better pharmaceutical tracking systems is another important aspect. Working with NAFDAC and PCN to conduct joint inspections of pharmacies and suppliers will ensure regulatory compliance and the removal of counterfeit drugs.
Lastly, I will support the replication of policies such as the Coordinated Wholesale Centres, starting with Kano, to safeguard the pharmaceutical supply chain and ensure integrity across all states.
Aside from the above, in what ways would you drive an inclusive agenda for female pharmacists in organised pharmacy activities?
Driving an inclusive agenda for female pharmacists involves several key initiatives. I plan to establish mentorship programmes that connect emerging female pharmacists with experienced leaders who can provide guidance and support. Leadership training workshops will be essential in equipping women with the skills needed for leadership, negotiation, and public speaking. I will also advocate for policies that ensure equal representation of women in decision-making roles, pushing for gender quotas where necessary.
By highlighting the contributions of female pharmacists through awards and recognition at conferences, we can create visibility and inspire more women to step into leadership roles. It’s also important to foster a supportive environment where female pharmacists can openly discuss the challenges they face, and I will facilitate forums for this purpose.
Finally, I will encourage the formation of collaborative networks and women’s groups within the pharmacy sector, helping women share their experiences and support one another in navigating the political landscape.
 Ejiro Oyovwin Foyibo is an eminent community pharmacist, with over 28 years of experience. A native of Delta State, she has dedicated her career to providing quality pharmaceutical care while also contributing significantly to leadership within the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN)){kind=link}