Speaking at the 26th Annual National Scientific Conference of the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), the Executive Governor of Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, the Honourable Commissioner for Health in Edo State, delivered an impactful address during the opening ceremony on August 5, 2025, where he called for a collaborative effort to enhance the pharmaceutical care sector.

The significant event took place at the SIO Event Center, where Okpebholo emphasized the critical need for an innovative, equitable, and inclusive health system in Nigeria, shedding light on the pivotal role that pharmacists play in achieving these goals.

Addressing a diverse audience of pharmacists, policymakers, and healthcare professionals, Okpebholo expressed his gratitude to AHAPN for their consistent dedication to advancing pharmaceutical care in Nigeria. “It is an honour and a privilege to be here today at this important gathering of thought leaders and passionate professionals,” he stated, setting a tone of collaboration and forward-thinking.

The Governor articulated the current health challenges facing Nigeria, including disease outbreaks and the rising burden of non-communicable diseases. He proclaimed, “The role of hospital and administrative pharmacists has become not just important—but essential,” highlighting the necessity for pharmacists to engage actively beyond traditional roles.

Okpebholo posed vital questions that resonated with the audience: “Are our patients in rural communities benefiting just as much as those in urban hospitals? Are we ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind because of geography, poverty, or ignorance?”

He articulated that equity in healthcare means ensuring accessible, affordable, and rationally used essential medicines, implementing treatment guidelines in practice, and ensuring robust pharmacovigilance systems are active across all tiers of the healthcare system.

Emphasizing the reforms underway in Edo State, Okpebholo spoke about the government's commitment to prioritizing people, equity, and sustainability within the healthcare system. “We are building a healthcare ecosystem that puts the patient at the center, driven by data, technology, and a well-motivated health workforce,” he explained. This vision aligns with the conference's focus on innovative approaches to enhance pharmaceutical care delivery.

Okpebholo also addressed the critical intersection between innovation and equity, posing vital questions about the accessibility of healthcare advancements. “Are these innovations reaching the last mile? Are our patients in rural communities benefiting just as much as those in urban hospitals?” he challenged the audience, urging them to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind due to geography, poverty, or ignorance.

He highlighted advancements in Edo State's healthcare initiatives, including strengthening the Drug Revolving Fund (DRF), implementing electronic inventory management systems, and involving pharmacists in critical aspects of medicine procurement and distribution. He also reinforced the importance of continuous medical education for all health workers, including pharmacists, to bridge knowledge gaps and enhance service delivery.

As he concluded, Okpebholo urged the attendees to leave the conference with actionable commitments that focus on improving care quality for patients, especially the vulnerable. “Together, we can build a health system that is innovative, inclusive, and truly equitable,” he inspired, reinforcing the need for collaboration among all stakeholders in the pharmacy profession.

The Governor’s vision for a cohesive and equitable healthcare system serves as a rallying cry for pharmacists, inspiring them to embrace their roles as champions of public health and advocates for systemic change in Nigeria.