On Thursday, February 20, 2025, the National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Pharm. Ambrose Igwekanma Ezeh, paid a courtesy visit to the President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, at the Pharmacy House in Anthony, Lagos. Ezeh extended heartfelt greetings on behalf of the ACPN, emphasizing their commitment to the ideals of the PSN and highlighting the importance of collaboration in advancing the practice of pharmacy in Nigeria. 

In his address, he stated, “As a technical group of the PSN, ACPN remains at the forefront of pharmaceutical care at the community level, ensuring accessibility, affordability, and the responsible use of medicines for millions of Nigerians.” Acknowledging the critical role community pharmacists play as custodians of public health, he expressed gratitude for the PSN’s support in ensuring excellence, professional ethics, and regulatory compliance within the sector.

Ezeh made it clear that the purpose of their visit was not merely a formality but a demonstration of a collective resolve to collaborate with the PSN in addressing the challenges that community pharmacists face. “We acknowledge the strides being made under your leadership in repositioning the pharmacy profession,” he remarked, indicating ACPN’s readiness to support these efforts through strategic advocacy, continuous professional development, and ethical pharmacy practice.

He went on to outline key areas where ACPN seeks the continued support of the PSN, emphasizing the need for policy advocacy and regulatory reforms. “We seek PSN’s collaboration in engaging policymakers and regulatory agencies to ensure an enabling environment for community pharmacy practice, especially in curbing the menace of drug abuse, counterfeiting, and illegal drug outlets,” he said.

Ezeh also underscored the importance of capacity building and professional development, expressing hopes for increased synergy in organizing training programs, workshops, and seminars to boost the competencies of ACPN members. “As a major stakeholder within PSN, ACPN remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote unity and professionalism within the society,” he noted, advocating for stronger partnerships among all technical groups within the PSN.

Furthermore, he highlighted the vital role that community pharmacists play in primary healthcare delivery, urging the PSN to advocate for positioning pharmacists as key healthcare providers within the Nigerian healthcare system, particularly in expanding their roles in immunization, public health campaigns, and chronic disease management.

In concluding his remarks, Ezeh expressed deep gratitude for President Tanko’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to the pharmacy profession, stating, “ACPN pledges its full support to the PSN's mission and will continue to work closely with you to ensure that community pharmacists contribute meaningfully to national healthcare delivery.” He reiterated his appreciation for the opportunity to engage, expressing optimism for a more productive and harmonious relationship that would elevate the pharmacy profession to greater heights.