Gov. Makinde, Pharm. Ibrahim & Pharm. Asuni To Grace World Pharmacists Day Celebration

CYRIACUS IZUEKWE 

The Oyo State Branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria will host a week-long celebration of the 2026 World Pharmacists Day from Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 27, 2026. 

Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, PSN National President Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, and keynote speaker Pharm. Lekan Asuni are expected to attend alongside other dignitaries from government, healthcare, and the pharmaceutical industry.

This year’s theme, “Empowering Pharmacist for a Healthier Future,” will focus on the role of pharmacists in public health, primary healthcare, medication safety, clinical practice, and healthcare innovation. The programme is designed to bring together policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to discuss how pharmacists can be better integrated into health systems.

Chairman of the Planning Committee, Adebayo Olukayode Gbadamosi, said the event will celebrate professional achievements while also advocating for greater recognition of pharmacists in health policy. He noted that investment in pharmacy education and professional development is important for building resilient health systems.

Host and Chairman of PSN Oyo State, Pharm. (Col.) Victor Segun Ajanaku rtd, said pharmacists are essential partners in healthcare delivery. He added that strengthening their competencies will improve how medicines are prescribed, dispensed, and managed in hospitals and communities. The celebration will also recognize practitioners whose work has enhanced the image of the profession in Oyo State.

In his remarks, PSN President Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim called for policies that support the full integration of pharmacists into healthcare delivery. He aligned with the position of the International Pharmaceutical Federation on the need for governments, regulators, and insurers to support pharmacy practice.

Keynote speaker Pharm. Lekan Asuni, Managing Director of Lefas Pharmaceutical, said the evolving healthcare environment requires pharmacists to go beyond medicine supply. He listed medication safety, adherence, antimicrobial stewardship, pharmacovigilance, chronic disease management, and public health programmes as key areas for expanded pharmacist involvement. He also called for proper financing and remuneration for services such as vaccination, screening, and medication reviews.

Guest Speaker, Mr. John Alamu, Managing Director of CapitalSage Holdings and Johnvents Group, emphasized continuous professional development and the adoption of digital health technologies. He urged pharmacists to combine formal education with training and research to expand their impact on patient safety and preventive care.

Governor Makinde is expected to attend with the First Lady of Oyo State, Her Excellency Tamunominini Makinde, as Special Guest of Honour. The governor described pharmacists as critical to drug safety, supply chain management, and primary healthcare. The event will be chaired by Engr. O. O. Oyetade, while Pharm. Rahamon Jimoh Bioku will also make special contributions.

Activities will hold at designated venues across Oyo State and will end with a red-carpet Awards Night on September 27, 2026. CEOAFRICA is the official media partner for the celebration.

Organizers have invited members of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, policymakers, industry leaders, and the public to participate as stakeholders work to promote professional excellence and a stronger, patient-centred health system.