Pharm. Precious Azino Usuemerai, is the immediate past coordinator of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria – Young Pharmacists Group (PSN YPG). A talented and vision driven pharmacist, whose determination to Impact the profession saw him through the fiercely contested election for the position of the State Coordinator of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, in October 2018, ascribed the success of his tenure to his burning passion to uplift the standard of the profession.
In an exclusive interview with Pharmanewsonline.com, he narrated how he has spearheaded several groundbreaking initiatives, which validated his reputation as a transformative young leader in the pharmaceutical industry. His first strategic move involved engaging directly with the Registrar of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) to advocate for a comprehensive overhaul of the pharmacy school curriculum. Recognising the rapid evolutions in healthcare, Usuemerai meticulously outlined the necessity for incorporating contemporary skills and advanced knowledge to prepare future pharmacists more effectively.
A hallmark of Usuemerai tenure was the introduction of the Young Pharmacists in Professional Excellence (YOPPEX) programme, an unprecedented initiative within the PSN-YPG nationwide. This innovative programme, according to him focused on skill acquisition and capacity building, designed to foster professional competence among young pharmacists. At his landmark meeting with the PCN Registrar, he disclosed how he articulated the substantial benefits of YOPPEX, which received resounding endorsement for its visionary approach.
He said, “The inaugural YOPPEX programme was a remarkable success, providing young pharmacists with unparalleled opportunities to engage with industry frontrunners. Notable among the speakers was Ibrahim Hussein, the esteemed CEO and Director of H-Medix Abuja, recognised for establishing one of Abuja’s most disruptive and innovative retail pharmacy chains. Participants gained invaluable insights and took part in a mini-MBA course, significantly enhancing their business acumen and strategic capabilities.”
Beyond staging of programmes, Usuemerai has been a formidable advocate for ethical practices within the pharmaceutical programmes. A good example of his advocacy for good pharmacy practice, was during the PSN Abuja meetings, where he consistently led initiatives against illegal pharmaceutical practices, championing the cause of credible and lawful pharma practice. His unwavering commitment to integrity has garnered him high praise and recognition from the state’s PSN leadership, positioning him as a leading voice for reform and excellence in the industry.
In another notable achievement, he revealed how he forged a strategic partnership with the British School of Project Management. This collaboration resulted in providing free project management training to over 100 young pharmacists in Abuja, further equipping them with essential skills to advance their careers and contribute more effectively to the healthcare system.
Usuemerai’s tenure as the State Coordinator of FCT Abuja PSN-YPG epitomises the significant impact of dedicated and visionary leadership. His innovative programmes and advocacy efforts have set new standards for excellence and professional development within the Nigerian pharmaceutical community.
