The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Lagos State Branch, has commended the Federal Government’s reappointment of Dr. Olugbenga Owoeye as the Medical Director of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, describing the move as a firm endorsement of ethical leadership and inclusive governance in the Nigerian health sector.

In a press statement issued on Friday, June 27, and signed by its Chairman, Pharm. Babayemi Oyekunle, FPSN, the PSN said Dr. Owoeye’s continued leadership reflects "visionary administration, unwavering professionalism, and a bold commitment to inclusive healthcare reforms."

The Society particularly praised Dr. Owoeye for standing firm against internal and external pressures during his tenure, notably in his decision to implement the appointment of Consultant Pharmacists in alignment with extant federal circulars and legal provisions, despite opposition from elements within the healthcare system.

“We commend Dr. Owoeye for demonstrating courage and professional integrity in the face of intimidation,” the PSN stated. “His actions not only reaffirmed the autonomy of the institution but also promoted equity and professionalism across the healthcare team.”

According to the statement, Dr. Owoeye’s tenure has recorded numerous milestones, including improvements in staff welfare, timely promotions, hospital infrastructure development, and a collaborative service delivery approach that has benefitted both staff and patients.

The PSN also applauded the Federal Ministry of Health, particularly the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, for prioritising merit, capacity, and fairness in the appointment of medical directors, urging that this principle be sustained across all federal health institutions.

In the same breath, the Lagos PSN extended heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Damola Dada, the immediate past Medical Director of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute Metta, whose eight-year tenure was described as “crisis-free and transformational.”

According to the Society, Dr. Dada distinguished himself through strategic leadership, effective public-private healthcare partnerships, and ethical decision-making. His refusal to compromise on the legal appointment of Consultant Pharmacists, despite pressure from some within his own professional ranks, was cited as a defining moment of his administration.

Currently serving as Chairman of the Board of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, Dr. Dada is said to be continuing on the path of reform by approving the placement of Pharm.D holders at Grade Level 12, a move seen as a bold step toward professional recognition and equity.

“Dr. Dada’s approval of GL-12 entry level for Pharm.D holders, especially in a resource-limited state like Ekiti, is a clear demonstration of fairness and administrative innovation,” the statement added.

The PSN praised both Dr. Owoeye and Dr. Dada as model public health administrators whose leadership has set new benchmarks for integrity, inclusion, and collaborative governance in Nigeria’s healthcare space.

Reiterating its position on multidisciplinary harmony, the PSN Lagos Branch stated that it will continue to resist “discriminatory and regressive practices” that marginalise non-physician healthcare professionals.

“Respect for every member of the healthcare team is fundamental for innovation, efficiency, and the delivery of quality care,” Pharm. Oyekunle said.

The Society called on other health institution leaders to emulate the examples of Dr. Owoeye and Dr. Dada by placing professionalism above politics and equity above personal interest.

These two professionals remind us that ethical leadership is not only possible, it is essential. We will continue to support and celebrate leaders who embody integrity, courage, and respect for all healthcare professionals.