In a bit to proffer solution toward better pharmacy practice in Nigeria, The Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy in collaboration with the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN), will hold a maiden edition of its Pharmacy Education Summit from today, 22 to 24 April, at the University of Lagos conference centre, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos.

 

Speaking to journalist in Lagos on Monday, The President of the Academy, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, said the aim of the summit is to carry out situation analysis, identify gaps and proffer solution towards a better pharmacy education and practice in Nigeria. He said the responsibility of the pharmacist have changed from mere drug dispensing to collaborative medication management with physicians and other health care professionals.

 

“Approximately one-half of patients visiting a community pharmacy have complained of inappropriate drug therapy thus necessitating the need for the changes in the role of the pharmacist. The goal of this summit is to maximize the pharmacist’s role in direct patient care, thereby empowering the pharmacy team to take responsibility for medication use outcomes by improving health care team integration and promoting pharmacist training,” he said.

 

Explaining further about the summit, the Vice President of the Academy, Ifeanyi Atueyi, said the education summit is the first outing of the academy hence all arrangement has been put in place to ensure its success.

 

 

Several institution and organisations expected to grace the occasion include, The Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria, National Agency for Food and Drug administration and Control (NAFDAC), National Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) AND THE West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP), among others.

 

According to Mr. Atueyi, the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy is aimed at promoting harmony and team spirit among members of the health sector and other relevant professionals.

 

“The academy champion’s transformation change and innovation through encouraging industry, research and development, as well as utilizing the several technological advancement opportunity open to pharma- care”, he added.

 

Special guests expected at the event are; The Minister of Health, Dr. Khaliru Alhassan, The Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Rahamon Bello, Prof. Cecilia Igwilo who will deliver the key note address, among others.

 

by FRANKA OSAKWE