The National Chairman of the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), Pharm. Elechi Kenneth Oyim, highlighted the importance of equitable pharmaceutical care in elevating the practice of pharmacy in Nigeria.
He conveyed this message during his welcome address in the historic city of Benin, Edo State, at the opening ceremony of the 26th Annual National Scientific Conference, tagged 'EDO 2025' held on August 5, 2025.
The conference, themed "Innovations in Pharmaceutical Care Delivery for Equitable Patient Healthcare," aimed to address the pressing challenges in Nigeria's healthcare landscape and advocate for transformative solutions.
In his address, Oyim expressed profound gratitude and a deep sense of responsibility as he welcomed esteemed guests, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to this significant event. “The theme could not have come at a more critical time in our nation's healthcare journey,” he remarked, stressing the need for innovation in the face of ongoing healthcare challenges.
He outlined the stark realities that many Nigerians face, including inadequate access to pharmaceutical care, medication errors, and insufficient integration of clinical pharmacy into patient care. “What can we do differently? What must we do better?” he urged the audience, framing the discourse around innovation as the answer to these pressing questions.
“Equitable pharmaceutical care must be available to every Nigerian child, adult, and elder,” he declared, underscoring that access to quality medicines should not be a privilege but a right for all, regardless of socio-economic status or geographical location. He called for collective efforts to prioritize pharmaceutical services within healthcare policies, budgets, and investments.
Oyim championed the significance of advancing the role of pharmacists in clinical settings, advocating for a systemic transformation that embraces innovative practices, technologies, and collaborative partnerships. “Our hospitals must embrace clinical pharmacy practice with appropriate remuneration and recognition,” he emphasized, pushing for a shift in how pharmacists are integrated into healthcare teams.
The address served as a rallying cry for attendees to push for institutional and systemic changes, shedding light on the fragmented communication within care teams and the underutilization of pharmacists. “Through digital innovation, strategic advocacy, and multisectoral collaboration, we can radically improve how we deliver pharmaceutical services,” he asserted, outlining a vision for a healthcare system that prioritizes inclusivity and efficiency.
The Chairman commended the planning committee, the Edo State Chapter of AHAPN, and partners for their unwavering support in organizing the event. He encouraged participants to engage with leading experts and collaborate on implementable strategies that would pave the way for a brighter future in pharmaceutical care.
As the conference commenced, he concluded with a call to action, urging all stakeholders to ignite change and innovate for equity. “The time is now. The place is here. The people are us,” he proclaimed, inspiring attendees to embrace their roles in transforming Nigeria's healthcare landscape.
With a focus on collaborative solutions and actionable commitments, the AHAPN conference aims to foster discussions and strategies that will advance pharmaceutical care and ensure equitable access for all Nigerians.
