The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has cautioned against proposed amendments to pharmacy legislation, warning that such changes could weaken regulatory independence and pose serious risks to public health.
The warning was issued on Tuesday by PSN President, Pharm. Tanko Ayuba, during the opening of the 2026 PSN Colloquium held at the Banquet Hall in Yola.
Ayuba emphasised the need to sustain a strong and independent Pharmacists Council of Nigeria Governing Council, describing it as vital for effective professional oversight, enforcement of discipline, and safeguarding the quality and safety of pharmaceutical services nationwide.
He warned that the proposed legislative amendments could erode the autonomy of pharmacy practice, thereby exposing Nigerians to unsafe practices and the activities of unlicensed operators.
“Pharmacy remains the only health profession on the Exclusive Legislative List. Any interference in its regulation puts public health at risk,” he stated.
Providing historical context, Ayuba traced the regulation of pharmacy practice in Nigeria to as far back as 1878, noting that the existing Pharmacists Act of 1964 has sustained professional standards and autonomy for over six decades. According to him, altering this framework could trigger a surge in unregistered pharmaceutical outlets and compromise adherence to Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP).
The PSN President called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to suspend action on the amendment bills, citing pending court cases on the matter.
“The rule of law must prevail. Public health and patient safety should not be jeopardised,” he added.
The society also lauded the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, for advancing healthcare delivery in the state.
PSN highlighted key interventions by the administration, including the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), creation of a pharmacy consultancy cadre within the civil service, and capacity-building programmes for pharmacy technicians.
Other notable projects include the establishment of a modern laboratory complex, development of health infrastructure across local government areas, a specialised infectious disease centre, upgraded surgical theatres, a dialysis facility providing free services, and enhanced obstetrics and gynaecology units.
As part of its long-term vision, the PSN announced the launch of its Centenary Endowment Fund aimed at strengthening pharmacy education and supporting health research.
The society also disclosed plans to institute the Umaru Fintiri Award for Innovation in Pharmacy Practice, with the inaugural presentation scheduled for the 2027 centenary celebrations.
Ayuba reaffirmed the society’s commitment to upholding professional standards and protecting public health.
“Our partnership with the Adamawa State Government will continue to set benchmarks in pharmacy practice and healthcare delivery. We remain resolute in ensuring that professionalism and patient safety are never compromised,” he said.
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