The Imo State chapter of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has urged the state government to address the public health risks associated with the open sale of medicines in common markets. The society warned that the unregulated trade of medicines could lead to increased drug resistance, higher disease burdens, and potential organ damage among the population.
This appeal was highlighted in a communiqué issued at the end of the Imo State Pharmaceutical Society/Pharma Business Summit held at Rock View Hotel, Owerri. The communiqué, signed by Dr. Nobert Ajiero, chairman of Imo PSN, and Dr. Solomon Nwafuru, chairman of the Imo Pharma Business Summit 2024, expressed gratitude to Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration for its near-completion of the Faculty of Pharmacy at Imo State University, while calling for the extension of similar academic infrastructure to K. O. Mbadiwe University.
The communiqué emphasized that “pharmacy remains the oxygen of the health sector’s viability” and noted Imo’s longstanding contributions to the pharmacy profession worldwide. It also urged the government to treat community pharmacies as essential healthcare institutions, similar to practices in developed countries, and to provide support for addressing the health needs of Imo residents.
Additional appeals included tax waivers or reductions to enable pharmacies to contribute more effectively to sustainable development goals and universal health coverage, as well as the appointment of over 80 pharmacists across primary, secondary, and tertiary healthcare facilities in the state. The summit highlighted that the role of pharmacists extends beyond qualification, providing essential healthcare impacts.
Regarding fuel scarcity and the high cost of petrol, the communiqué noted these as national concerns and called on Governor Uzodimma to help address the rising costs in the state. The PSN also requested electricity tariff waivers for community pharmacies and health facilities to help reduce treatment costs and improve healthcare service delivery for citizens.
The communiqué concluded by urging security agencies to collaborate with pharmacists to ensure swift response during emergencies, epidemics, pandemics, and other critical health situations, enabling pharmacists to provide timely assistance in urgent health-related issues.
