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By Doris Obinna
As Nigeria joined the global community today in celebrating the 2025 World Pharmacists Day, the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), has launch a groundbreaking initiative aimed at redefining pharmacy practice in Nigeria and beyond.
This year’s theme, “Think Health, Think Pharmacy,” underscores the indispensable role of pharmacists in modern healthcare systems as providers of medication expertise, health advice, disease management, and public health promotion.
In a statement signed by the National Chairman, ACPN, Ambrose Ezeh, and National Secretary, Omokhafe Ashore, the association stated that pharmacists, often the first point of contact for patients, have long been recognized for their accessibility and willingness to offer consultation without fees. “Beyond dispensing medicines, they provide critical information on side effects, drug interactions, and preventive healthcare.”
The ACPN emphasised that the role of pharmacists extends into public health campaigns, health education, telepharmacy, digital health, policy advocacy, and global health initiatives.
To strengthen professional development and enhance the value of pharmaceutical care, the ACPN unveiled Pharmacy Forward: ‘Performance, Collaboration, and Health Transformation’ a globally aligned program designed to standardize career progression ratings for community pharmacists. The initiative, it further disclosed introduces a five-band career structure ranging from Community Pharmacist to Community Pharmacist Consultant. According to the ACPN, this framework will drive professional knowledge, skills, and confidence while fostering quality improvement, collaboration, and networking opportunities.
They further highlighted the benefits of the new progression model, noting that it will encourage career advancement, build capacity, retain talent, and ensure greater patient satisfaction. They stressed that the initiative is timely, as it positions community pharmacists to make an even greater impact in healthcare delivery, particularly in advancing public health and promoting equity.
“As we move pharmacy forward, we envision improved health outcomes for the Nigerian populace through continuous innovation, advocacy, and collaboration,” the ACPN leadership declared. They called on government, health providers, consumers, and stakeholders to partner with the association in driving the transformation agenda.
The 2025 World Pharmacists Day, celebrated on September 25, has become a platform for reaffirming the profession’s commitment to better health. This year, the ACPN’s bold initiative signals a new chapter for community pharmacy practice in Nigeria, rooted in performance, collaboration, and health transformation.
