The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has called for the preservation of professional autonomy and the strengthening of regulatory structures in Nigeria’s pharmacy sector, warning that ongoing legislative disruptions could undermine public health safeguards.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2026 PSN Colloquium held in Yola, Adamawa State, PSN President Ibrahim Tanko Ayuba emphasised the critical need for an effective and efficient Governing Council of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN), noting that such a body is essential for maintaining standards, ensuring discipline, and safeguarding the integrity of pharmaceutical practice in the country.
He explained that the council’s responsibilities span practice regulation, training of pharmacists and support staff, and disciplinary oversight, stressing that these functions require experienced professionals with deep knowledge of pharmacy ethics and regulatory frameworks. According to him, any imbalance in the composition or operation of the council could pose serious risks to both the profession and public safety.
Ayuba also raised concerns over legislative moves affecting the sector, urging Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to suspend consideration of certain health-related amendment bills currently before the courts. He argued that adherence to the rule of law and respect for judicial processes are necessary to avoid destabilising the regulatory environment.
Highlighting the historical importance of pharmacy regulation in Nigeria, the PSN president noted that drug control has long been treated as a sensitive national matter, dating back to colonial ordinances and reinforced by its placement on the Exclusive Legislative List in the 1999 Constitution. He warned that excessive interference from non-professional stakeholders could erode globally accepted standards such as Good Pharmacy Practice.
The PSN president also commended the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri, for what he described as significant strides in the healthcare sector. He cited the implementation of improved salary structures for health workers, the establishment of a pharmacy consultancy cadre, and ongoing training programmes for pharmacy technicians as key achievements.
Other initiatives highlighted include the upgrade of health facilities across local government areas, the construction of a modern laboratory complex, the establishment of an infectious disease centre, and the introduction of advanced medical infrastructure such as dialysis units, laparoscopic surgery facilities, and solar-powered hospital systems.
Ayuba further noted that the state government’s support for professional development and healthcare delivery has positioned Adamawa as a growing hub for medical excellence. He also acknowledged the governor’s backing for the PSN national conference scheduled to be held in the state later in 2026.
As part of the colloquium, the PSN formally launched its Centenary Endowment Fund, aimed at promoting pharmacy education and health research in Nigeria. Ayuba disclosed that the fund would also support innovation within the profession, including the planned introduction of an award in honour of Governor Fintiri to recognise excellence in pharmacy practice.
He reiterated the society’s call for the establishment of a College of Pharmacy at the state university, expressing optimism that collaboration with the Adamawa State Government would bring the vision to fruition.
Ayuba concluded by thanking stakeholders, past leaders of the society, and government officials for their contributions to the success of the event, expressing confidence that continued partnerships would yield measurable improvements in public health outcomes across the country
