The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has called on the Federal Government to officially recognize community pharmacies as Primary Health Care Centres. The group said pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals and play an essential role in delivering healthcare across the country.
In a statement marking the 2025 World Pharmacists Day, ACPN’s National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, described the theme of this year’s event, “Think Health, Think Pharmacist,” as a timely reminder of the unique role of pharmacists in ensuring quality care, expanding access to services, and strengthening Nigeria’s health system.
Ezeh explained that in many communities, pharmacists are the first point of contact for patients. They provide quick and professional care, offering advice to individuals and families without the need for appointments.
He noted that this accessibility allows pharmacists to give free consultations, advise on safe drug use, explain possible side effects, monitor drug interactions, and ensure patients stick to their treatment plans.
“Pharmacists are trusted professionals who combine medical expertise with public health and patient-focused care,” Ezeh said. “Every day, people walk into pharmacies and leave with education, reassurance, and guidance. This is why pharmacies should be recognized as Primary Health Care Centres.”
Ezeh also pointed out that community pharmacies are increasingly used as centres for public health campaigns, including vaccination drives and health screenings for conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
He stressed that pharmacists play a vital role in preventing diseases and ensuring safe use of medicines. He mentioned their efforts in opioid control and campaigns against misuse of antibiotics as examples of their contributions to community health.
According to him, pharmacists also take part in shaping health policies, conducting research, and promoting collaboration between health workers and the public to improve outcomes.
He added that with digital technology, pharmacists now reach more people through telepharmacy, providing consultations in remote areas and helping to close gaps in healthcare access.
Ezeh said pharmacists’ knowledge makes them key members of healthcare teams that work together to improve treatment results, reduce inequalities, and make services more efficient.
He emphasized that pharmacists support value-based care, which focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that put patient well-being first, rather than just the number of services provided.
As part of this year’s World Pharmacists Day, Ezeh announced a new programme called “Pharmacy Forward: Performance, Collaboration, and Health Transformation.” The initiative is designed to improve career growth for community pharmacists in Nigeria and internationally.
He explained that the new system will create five career stages: Community Pharmacist, Senior Community Pharmacist, Community Pharmacist Specialist, Community Pharmacist Senior Specialist, and Community Pharmacist Consultant.
The system will help pharmacists gain more knowledge, keep improving their skills, and build stronger professional networks.
“The benefits of this initiative will bring better health outcomes for Nigerians,” Ezeh said. “Community pharmacy practice will not only give personal satisfaction to pharmacists but also deliver long-lasting impact on communities and the entire health sector.”
He reaffirmed ACPN’s commitment to pushing for change and urged the government to officially recognize community pharmacies as part of Nigeria’s primary healthcare system.
Ezeh also encouraged pharmacists to use the 2025 World Pharmacists Day to showcase their contributions and demand full recognition of their role in the country’s health system.
