Oyo Gov’t Dedicated To Creating Enabling Environment For Community Pharmacist— Makinde

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for community pharmacists.

The Governor stated this during his address at the 43rd Annual International Scientific Conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) themed Oluyole 2024, which was held at the International Conference Center, Ibadan.

Governor Makinde, who spoke through his deputy, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, emphasized the state’s dedication to advancing the pharmaceutical profession and improving healthcare delivery. 

He acknowledged the pivotal role of community pharmacists as the first point of contact for medical advice, highlighting their essential contribution to public health and patient care.

The Governor praised the ACPN for its steadfast commitment to enhancing community pharmacy practice in Nigeria and stressed the importance of continuous innovation and collaboration within the healthcare sector. 

He equally underscored Oyo State’s proactive approach in integrating community pharmacists into public health initiatives, such as the Director of Public Health TB/HIV Integration Coordination Meetings.

Governor Makinde, who outlined Oyo State’s efforts in creating a supportive environment for community pharmacists through initiatives like the Community Pharmacy Expansion Scheme (CPES), said the state’s alignment with the Omituton 2.0 health agenda and Universal Health Coverage goals, aimed to ensure affordable access to drugs and medical supplies for all citizens.

He highlighted significant advancements in healthcare infrastructure, including the impending establishment of the Oyo State Drug Management Agency, aimed at improving pharmaceutical procurement and distribution. 

He announced plans to recruit additional healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, to enhance service delivery and address workforce shortages.

Governor Makinde, however, encouraged active participation in the conference discussions to foster innovation and address challenges unique to community pharmacy practice, particularly in underserved rural areas. He emphasized collaboration as essential for driving meaningful change and improving healthcare outcomes across Nigeria.

Earlier in her address, Prof. Mojisola Christiana Adeyem, Director General of NAFDAC and Chairperson of the occasion, acknowledged pharmaceutical companies performing commendably.

She highlighted the pivotal role of community pharmacists as crucial healthcare professionals, serving as the primary interface with the community, as supported by research findings.