The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) has urged pharmacists across the country to prioritise research and development as well as industrial growth to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The National Chairman of NAIP, Mr. Bankole Ezebuilo made the call in Ilorin during the 2025 NAIP Kwara Week, themed “Technological and Innovative Advancement in the Pharmacy Space.”
The week-long event aimed to foster innovation and professional best practices among industrial pharmacists.
Ezebuilo emphasised that a renewed focus on technology, innovation, and research in the pharmaceutical industry would drive advancements in drug development, manufacturing, and distribution, ultimately improving healthcare delivery.
“When you think of pharmacists, the first thing that comes to mind is drugs. The industry is our den. Without drugs, there is no pharmacy. Pharmacists should not leave their den and start playing second fiddle in other people’s den,” he said.
He recalled that pharmacy education in Nigeria during the 1980s and 1990s was largely industry-focused, covering pharmaceutics and pharmaceutical technology. However, the current shift toward clinical pharmacy, while valuable, should not come at the cost of neglecting the industrial sector.
“There must be a balance. We cannot afford to jeopardise technological and innovative advancement in the pharmacy space,” he added.
Ezebuilo stressed that investing in pharmaceutical R&D is essential for developing homegrown therapies tailored to Nigeria’s unique health challenges.
He acknowledged persistent hurdles such as foreign exchange volatility, rising power costs, and communication barriers, but maintained that Nigeria’s return on investment in the pharmaceutical sector remains promising.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Ibrahim Bello, former Director and Head of Pharmacy at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, said the pharmacy profession has evolved beyond dispensing to incorporate advanced technological practices.
He highlighted emerging innovations such as drones for medicine delivery to remote areas, telepharmacy for remote consultations, and personalised medicine targeting only diseased cells.
“We must align with global trends and make our services more accessible and efficient,” Bello stated.
In his welcome address, Mr. Isaac Salami, Kwara NAIP Chairman, described the NAIP Week as an annual capacity-building programme designed to promote best practices among members.
He noted that industrial pharmacists regularly participate in conferences and training, staying up to date with the latest developments in technology and drug innovation.
“Technology is dynamic. New molecules are constantly being developed, forming the foundation of pharmaceutical innovation,” Salami said.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the Icon of Pharmacy Award to Mr. Ramon Bioku, CEO of Bioraj Pharmaceuticals Ltd., in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the pharmaceutical industry.
The NAIP Kwara Week continues to position pharmacists at the forefront of healthcare innovation, advocating for a balanced approach that honours both clinical excellence and industrial leadership.
