The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in Imo State has called on the state government to address the rising dangers associated with the open sale of drugs in public markets, warning of potential public health crises, including increased drug resistance, escalating disease burdens, and risks of organ damage among residents. This was one of the key issues raised in a communiqué following the Imo State Pharmaceutical Society/Pharma Business Summit, held at Rock View Hotel, Owerri. The statement was jointly signed by Dr. Nobert Ajiero, Chairman of Imo PSN, and Dr. Solomon Nwafuru, Chairman of the Imo Pharma Business Summit 2024.
In its detailed communiqué, the PSN thanked Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration for advancing the construction of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Imo State University and urged the government to consider extending similar programs to K. O. Mbadiwe University. The society emphasized that Imo State, home to globally renowned pharmacy professionals, has a pressing need for more pharmacy institutions to sustain and advance its role in healthcare.
Addressing the challenges faced by community pharmacies, PSN implored the government to recognize and support pharmacies as integral health institutions, similar to practices in more developed countries. The communiqué highlighted the benefits of providing tax waivers or reductions for community pharmacies to enhance their capacity to contribute toward sustainable development goals and universal health coverage for Imo citizens.
Furthermore, PSN urged the state government to appoint more than 80 pharmacists across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare facilities, noting that pharmacists play an indispensable role in healthcare delivery that goes beyond their academic qualifications.
The communiqué also appealed for close collaboration between security agencies and pharmacists, emphasizing the need for faster access during emergencies, public health crises, and essential health-related duties. PSN noted that such cooperation would improve response times and healthcare outcomes during epidemics and pandemics.
On the national issue of fuel scarcity and high petrol costs, PSN requested Governor Uzodimma’s intervention to help mitigate the economic impact on healthcare services in the state. Additionally, they appealed for electricity tariff waivers for community pharmacies and health facilities, arguing that reducing operational costs would allow healthcare providers to lower treatment costs for citizens and enhance service delivery.
The PSN’s impassioned call for action underscores the urgent need for policy reforms to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure in Imo, ensuring accessible, affordable, and quality health services for all residents.
