On September 30, 2025, pharmacists in Lagos demanded urgent reforms to Nigeria’s chaotic drug distribution system and the integration of pharmacy services into health insurance plans.
They warned that excluding pharmacists from health policies threatens public safety and Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
World Pharmacists Day
The call came during the 2025 World Pharmacists Day, themed “Think Health, Think Pharmacist,” held at the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) Secretariat in Ogudu, Lagos.
Events included a health walk, community outreach, and training sessions to highlight pharmacists’ vital role.
Distribution Concerns
ACPN Lagos Chairman Tolu Ajayi labeled the drug distribution system “unsafe and risky,” citing unenforced National Drug Distribution Guidelines.
“Pharmacists ensure medicine quality. Without reform, fake drugs will harm Nigerians,” he said.
Policy Exclusion
Ajayi criticized the marginalization of pharmacists in health interventions, despite their accessibility in communities.
“Ignoring pharmacists weakens healthcare delivery,” he added, urging their inclusion in policy planning.
Insurance Flaws
Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Lagos Chairman Babayemi Oyekunle slammed the National Health Insurance Authority and Lagos State Health Management Agency for sidelining pharmacists in insurance schemes.
“Excluding us flaws the system and limits access to safe medicines,” he said.
Advocacy Push
Former ACPN Chairman Lawrence Ekhator called for stronger media campaigns to correct misconceptions.
“Pharmacists are key healthcare providers, not just dispensers. We must educate the public and policymakers,” he urged.
Event Highlights
Pharmacists marched to the Ketu-Alapere Secretariat, engaging communities and media to push for reform. Stakeholders and coordinators across Lagos joined the effort.
Why It Matters
Pharmacists are critical to safe medicine access and UHC. A flawed drug system and policy exclusion risk public health and Nigeria’s healthcare goals.
What’s Next
Pharmacists plan sustained advocacy in 2025 to ensure their inclusion in health policies and a reformed drug distribution system.
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