The outgoing President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Prof. Cyril Usifoh, has called on the society’s next leadership to continue advancing key milestones achieved during his tenure, saying whoever emerges has his support in order to ensure the Society moves to the next level.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 97th PSN Annual National Conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Prof. Usifoh underscored his administration’s efforts in strengthening the regulation of veterinary and human pharmaceutical practices, improving pharmacists’ welfare, and securing landmark achievements in policy and operational efficiency.
In his address, Prof. Usifoh reflected on his administration’s success in reinforcing the regulatory framework for premises involved in veterinary drug sales. Highlighting a recent judicial ruling, he described the court’s decision as “a sound judgment” upholding the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria’s (PCN) right to oversee veterinary drug outlets in line with its mandate for human pharmacies. This, he emphasised, reflects the robust legal foundation his team established to ensure high standards in veterinary and human pharmacy practices.
Turning to public sector pharmacy welfare, Usifoh commended the strides made under his administration, noting that the PSN was instrumental in the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government, which sought improved remuneration, consultancy status for pharmacists in federal health institutions, and adjustments in retirement age to 65 for general health workers and 70 for consultants, including pharmacists.
Usifoh noted that his administration worked diligently to actualise these changes, securing a commitment from federal institutions to integrate the consultancy status and related budgeting into their operational plans.
Prof. Usifoh also noted the PSN’s role in advocating for community pharmacists and ensuring their voices were heard on the national stage. He revealed that his administration was vigilant in guarding against legislative amendments that could undermine the Pharmacy Act of 2022. “Your president rose up to the responsibility, rallied stakeholders, and made sure that no clause detrimental to our profession was sneaked in,” he declared.
In a show of fiscal prudence, Usifoh reported that since October 2023, the PSN headquarters had reduced costs by switching entirely to solar power, which now supports the air conditioners. He confirmed that the incoming president would inherit over ₦180 million, accumulated through profits from annual conferences and contributions from alumni and donors.
Looking forward, he encouraged the incoming PSN leadership to “occupy any vacant seat” and continue to expand PSN’s influence in policy and practice. He urged his successor to follow through on significant legislative pursuits, including the Drug Procurement and Distribution Act, the National Postgraduate College of Pharmacy Bill, and amendments to the Fake Drug Act. He also highlighted the PSN’s partnerships in dislodging illegal drug markets and enforcing regulations to curb fake drugs.
The university don also expressed appreciation for the support from PSN members, colleagues, and friends who contributed to his presidency’s successes. He encouraged the next president to uphold the Society’s achievements and drive it towards greater development.
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