The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Kano State branch, has joined counterparts around the world to commemorate World Pharmacists Day, with a renewed call for Nigerians to recognize and rely on the professional expertise of pharmacists in safeguarding their health.

Speaking to SolaceBase, the Secretary of the PSN in branch, Pharmacist Mustapha Umar Sa’id, underscored the global significance of the day, noting that it was initiated by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), which came into existence in 1912.

The Federation officially designated September 25th as World Pharmacists Day in 2009 to highlight the critical role pharmacists play in the healthcare system.

Mustapha Sa’id explained that “World Pharmacists Day is not just about celebrating pharmacist, it is about drawing attention to the unique contributions we make to public health, drug safety, and the fight against abuse and misuse of medicines.”

This year’s theme, “Think of Health, Think of Pharmacists,” according to him, aligns perfectly with Nigeria’s health realities. He stressed that pharmacists are the custodians of medicines and should be consulted at every stage of drug dispensing.

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“When a patient visits the hospital, the journey starts with medical records, then doctors and laboratory tests, but it ends with the pharmacist. We ensure that the medicines prescribed are genuine, safe, and properly dispensed. That is why self-medication is dangerous, patients must always rely on pharmacists to guide their treatment.”

The PSN Kano Secretary highlighted the progress recorded in reforming the chaotic drug distribution system in the state. He recalled the era of open drug markets, particularly Sabon Gari, where medicines were easily accessible without regulation, often resulting in abuse and the circulation of substandard products.

“With the establishment of the Drug and Medical Consumables Supply Agency and the Coordinated Wholesale Centre at Dangoro, the environment has changed significantly. Now, essential medicines are more affordable, accessible, and safe. These facilities allow us to monitor what goes in and what comes out of the system.”

He emphasized that such reforms have enhanced confidence in the pharmaceutical sector and improved public access to quality medicines.

Mustapha Sa’id also revealed that the association works hand-in-hand with critical agencies such as the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to strengthen regulations against illicit drugs.

“While regulatory bodies provide oversight, pharmacists serve as the frontline in drug dispensing. Through platforms like the Pharmacy Inspection Committee, which meets regularly, we ensure that standards are maintained and unethical practices are checked,” he explained.

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He further pointed out that World Pharmacists Day also provides an opportunity to address pressing issues such as drug abuse among young people, which continues to pose a major challenge in Nigeria. He urged stakeholders to intensify awareness campaigns, while reiterating that only pharmacists have the expertise to ensure medicines are used correctly and safely.

Pharmacist Umar Said appealed to the public to prioritize pharmacist whenever they seek medical attention.

“Pharmacists are not just dispensers of drugs, we are healthcare advisers, educators, and protectors of public health. Nigerians must understand that their safety and wellbeing depend on consulting genuine pharmacists, not unqualified individuals,” he said.

The Kano PSN branch reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safe medicine use, curbing the menace of fake and substandard drugs, and supporting government initiatives aimed at strengthening the nation’s healthcare system.