The Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in Ogun State, Adewale Adenugba, announced on Sunday that the 2023 Pharmacists Day celebration, which occurs annually on the 25th of September, would focus on conducting free medical outreach programs in selected communities within Abeokuta, the state capital. Additionally, the Ogun State PSN chapter would visit correctional facilities and orphanages as part of their commemoration activities.
During the free medical outreach events, beneficiaries would receive essential health examinations, health education, and free medications. Some schools have also been chosen for discussions on the dangers of drug abuse, and media engagement will be utilized to continuously educate the public.
Adenugba shared these details in a statement regarding this year’s Pharmacists’ Day, which carries the theme, ‘Pharmacy: Strengthening The Health System.’
Highlighting the significance of pharmacy practice, Adenugba emphasized that pharmacists in Nigeria play a crucial role in providing accessible and affordable healthcare solutions to communities, thereby enhancing public health standards nationwide.
He stated, “As experts in medicines, pharmacists could be authorized to prescribe and initiate medication, and they possess the skills to manage patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and HIV.” Adenugba noted that community pharmacists have achieved considerable success in this regard.
He stressed the importance of Nigeria moving in this direction to align with more advanced nations and to work towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-3) on Access to Essential Health Services.
Adenugba also highlighted the advancement of pharmacy practice in Nigerian hospital settings, with an emphasis on specialization. He mentioned the presence of well-trained and certified Consultant Pharmacists, whose practice and status are supported by a Federal Government gazette and hopefully will be adopted by the state of Ogun in the near future.
He pointed out that World Pharmacists Day is an initiative of the International Pharmaceutical Federation, recognized in 2009 during a conference in Istanbul, Turkey. The purpose of the celebration is to draw attention to the field of pharmacy and the vital role played by pharmacists in global health improvement. Additionally, it aims to encourage and support actions that promote healthcare worldwide.