By Doris Obinna
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), has commended Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo, for his initiatives at strengthening pharmaceutical services and primary healthcare in the state.
ACPN at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, praised the decision of the governor to build the Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) at Oba in line with the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG), while also commending the swift pace of construction work at the site.
ACPN expressed appreciation for the development of a pharmaceutical manufacturing hub at Ogboji, describing it as a significant step towards industrial growth in the state.
In its communique signed by the National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh and National Secretary, Mrs. Omokhafe Ashore, the union celebrated the appointment of pharmacists into strategic positions, including, Pauly Onyeka as Commissioner for Housing and Dr. Godwin Nnadozie as Special Adviser on Pharmaceuticals and Medicals.
The Council also commended the leadership of Chief Executive Officer, Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Chisom Uchem for her outstanding contributions to primary healthcare.
The NEC recognized the strategic placement of over 20 pharmacists within the state Ministry of Health, which it described as a timely intervention amid the scarcity of pharmacists in Anambra’s health sector. It called on the government to initiate public health programmes through community pharmacies and adopt digital solutions in drug distribution and pharmaceutical care.
It urged the government to bolster the State Task Force on Fake and Counterfeit Drugs and advocated for the speedy passage of the Drug Management Agency (DMA) Bill, citing the law’s successful implementation in other states under the leadership of qualified pharmacists.
In addressing internal matters, the NEC raised concerns over electoral disputes in some state branches, attributing the issues to deviations from the ACPN Constitution. The Council mandated all state branches to submit their byelaws to the National Secretariat for alignment with the national constitution.
It also approved constitutional amendments proposed by the Executive Committee and tasked the committee with preparing for ratification at the upcoming National Conference in July.
A resolution was passed concerning the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) branch, where the NEC found the former executive committee to have disregarded directives. The NEC ordered disciplinary measures against those involved and directed the reinforcement of the Caretaker Committee with NEC members to oversee fresh elections. It also suspended the FCT branch’s right to host the 2026 national conference.
“The association remains committed to the promotion of ethical practice and constitutional order across all branches. We will continue to work with relevant authorities to ensure the highest standards of pharmaceutical care in Nigeria.
“We sincerely appreciate the hospitality and unwavering support of the Anambra State Government. Their logistical and financial contributions have been instrumental in the success of this NEC meeting and the preparations for our forthcoming National Conference.”