ACPN Plans Pharma Centres In 36 States To Boost Healthcare Delivery

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria has announced its commitment to establishing pharmaceutical centres in each of Nigeria’s 36 states.

This pledge was made by the outgoing National Chairman, Adewale Oladigbolu, during the 43rd International Scientific Conference, titled “Oluyole 2024,” held at the University of Ibadan’s Conference Centre.

Oladigbolu highlighted the uneven distribution of healthcare facilities as a significant challenge impacting primary healthcare delivery.

He noted that the data on community pharmacare across Nigeria’s 774 local councils was concerning, prompting the ACPN’s initiative to create pharma centres in underserved regions.

A model building recently inaugurated in Afijio Local Council of Oyo State was cited as part of this initiative, aimed at encouraging and supporting members to serve in less accessible areas.

During his tenure, Oladigbolu said his administration successfully enhanced members’ access to credit facilities through partnerships with financial institutions.

He noted that the conference theme, “Advancing Community Pharmacy Practice Through Innovation and Collaboration,” was selected to foster improvements in community pharmacy and national health outcomes.

On his part, the Chairman of the Association of Pharmacists in Academia from Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Ezekiel Olugbenga Akinkunmi, called for increased federal funding for research in universities.

He highlighted concerns over the National Universities Commission’s lecturer-to-student ratio, which adversely affects the quality of pharmaceutical education.

The conference concluded with the election of new executives for the ACPN. Ambrose Igwekamma Ezeh was elected Chairman, and Adegboyega Ogunloye was chosen as Vice Chairman, among other new officials.