As the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) approaches its 100th anniversary, the association continues to stand tall as the oldest, most organized, and most stable professional body in the country — a legacy sustained by the commitment, wisdom, and leadership of its living ancestors and past presidents.
Over the decades, PSN has evolved from a modest gathering of pharmacists into a formidable professional organization that commands respect across the healthcare spectrum. Its reputation, built on integrity and excellence, has been shaped by a long lineage of visionary leaders whose collective mantra “As men (and women) of honour join hands” and continue to guide the Society’s mission to advance pharmacy practice and safeguard public health.
Through strategic leadership and consistent advocacy, PSN has redefined the image and impact of pharmacists in Nigeria. What began as a profession limited largely to dispensing medications under government service has blossomed into a diverse and dynamic scientific field. Today, Nigerian pharmacists are not only key players in drug production, distribution, and regulation but also pioneers in clinical care, research, biotechnology, and public health innovation.
At the heart of this transformation stand the living ancestors of PSN — a distinguished group of past presidents whose stewardship has kept the flame of progress burning. They include Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, Alhaji Mohammed Yaro Budah, Dr. U.N.O. Uwaga, Sir Anthony Akhimien, Pharm. Azubike Okwor, Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, Pharm. Ahmed I. Yakasai, Pharm. (Mazi) Sam Ohuabunwa, and Pharm. Cyril Odianose Usifoh.
Collectively and individually, these eminent professionals have played and still playing pivotal roles in shaping the Society’s philosophy and influence. Their efforts in mentoring younger pharmacists, promoting ethical standards, and sustaining unity within the profession have been instrumental in keeping PSN at the forefront of healthcare advocacy and national development.
From fostering collaboration among pharmacists across sectors — industry, academia, hospital, and community practice, to strengthening PSN’s voice in national policy formulation, these leaders have proven that visionary leadership and shared purpose remain the bedrock of the Society’s longevity.
As PSN moves closer to its centenary celebration, the Society continues to build on this heritage of honour and professionalism. Under the watchful guidance of its living ancestors and the dynamic leadership of its current executives, PSN remains committed to driving excellence in pharmaceutical care, advancing scientific innovation, and ensuring that every pharmacist in Nigeria stands as a beacon of trust, knowledge, and service.
The story of PSN is, indeed, the story of Nigeria’s healthcare evolution — one written by generations of men and women of honour, bound by a shared vision to heal, to serve, and to elevate the dignity of the pharmacy profession for the next hundred years and beyond.
