Pharmaceutical industry stakeholders have called on the new leadership of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, headed by Ambrose Ezeh, to take action in addressing the sector’s pressing challenges.
They pointed out several urgent issues that need immediate focus, including quackery, excessive regulation, and ongoing harassment from police and local government officials.
According to Naijatraffic, industry professionals expressed that quackery in the pharmaceutical sector, among others, is a primary concern that Ezeh’s administration should confront directly.
The pharmacists encouraged Ezeh to perceive his position as a significant responsibility, with an emphasis on improving Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape and guaranteeing that citizens have access to quality medications and outstanding services.
Olumide Akintayo, the former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, urged Ezeh to build upon the accomplishments of his predecessor, Adewale Oladigbolu, noting that expectations for him (Ezeh) would be substantial.
He stressed the necessity of continuing the ‘clean initiative’ initiated by Oladigbolu, recommending that Ezeh focus on creating a robust and effective partnership with the government.
This approach, he said, would ensure that community pharmacists are fully included in Nigeria’s Primary Health Care system, pointing out the significant role of community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic, when approximately 273 facilities administered 76,000 vaccinations.
Akintayo advocated for a transition from ad-hoc immunization campaigns to regular immunization practices.
He indicated that such a shift could greatly influence the health system, potentially enhancing health outcomes and lowering adverse health indicators such as maternal and child mortality rates in the country.
Jonah Okotie, the former Secretary General of ACPN, stated that the new administration should undertake an evaluation to pinpoint the most urgent issues and figure out the appropriate measures to address them effectively.
Okotie said, “The focus should be on reviewing existing programmes and projects while selecting those that are most relevant and can be implemented successfully.
“The three-year term, while it may seem distant, is relatively short given the rapidly changing circumstances and limited resources.
“This reality necessitates a focused and strategic approach to ensure that the most impactful initiatives are prioritised and executed efficiently.
“The ongoing oversight and interference from various regulatory bodies further exacerbate these issues, complicating efforts and hindering progress. Unfortunately, the gravity of these problems has not made the government declare a national emergency.”
He emphasized that quackery in healthcare persists, causing harm, wasting resources, and claiming lives. Its impact affects not only victims but also the wider community, imposing significant costs on the government.
He called on the media to raise awareness about these issues, stressing that by educating the public and exposing the dangers of unqualified practitioners, the media can promote a more informed and proactive approach to tackling these challenges.
Continuing, he said, “Policy implementation and the review of existing policies are also critical areas of focus. It is essential for the leadership not only to promise reforms but also to work diligently with their teams to ensure these promises are fulfilled.
“Effective policy implementation necessitates a collaborative effort and a commitment to addressing the identified issues in a timely and efficient manner.
“Most importantly, fulfilling campaign promises and tackling the pressing challenges faced by members will require a strategic approach, a clear understanding of current issues, and a commitment to meaningful action.
“With the right focus and determination, it is possible to make significant progress and achieve the desired outcomes within the available time frame,” he highlighted.
