The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has issued a fervent appeal to the Federal Government to take immediate measures to prevent the potential collapse of services in all 57 Federal tertiary institutions across the nation.
Speaking at the Lagos PSN’s 2024 Annual Luncheon and Investiture Ceremony of the New Merit Award Winners, Mr. Babayemi Oyekunle, the Lagos State Chairman of PSN, emphasized the urgency of the situation and urged the Minister of Health and Social Services, Professor Ali Pate, to initiate dialogue promptly to forestall any adverse outcomes.
Oyekunle stressed the importance of expediting processes to facilitate the approval and disbursement of benefits to members of the Joint Health Workers Unions of Nigeria (JOHESU), particularly regarding the adjustment of Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) as done for Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) since January 2, 2024.
Highlighting the potential ramifications of inaction, Oyekunle warned against the detrimental effects of possible strikes on healthcare services, urging the government to fulfill its commitments to avoid such disruptions.
The PSN chairman also expressed gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Education, particularly Minister of State for Education, Dr. Tanko Sununu, for overseeing the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the National Board for Technical Education and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN). He lauded this as a significant educational reform ensuring a unified approach in training Pharmacy Technicians in Nigeria.
Addressing concerns surrounding the legal framework governing pharmacy practice, Oyekunle emphasized the PCN’s sole authority in regulating the sector and setting standards for pharmacy technicians and patent medicine vendors. He underscored the legality of the PCN’s mandate, supported by Federal High Court rulings across multiple states affirming the PCN’s regulatory role.
Furthermore, Oyekunle urged the PCN to capitalize on recent legislative advancements to enhance the status of Pharmacy Technicians, advocating for their inclusion on the PCN’s Governing Council. He emphasized the pivotal role of pharmacists in facilitating the career progression of Pharmacy Technicians and encouraged ongoing professional development in the field.
In closing, Oyekunle congratulated the 38 new Merit Award Winners, reminding them of their heightened responsibilities and the expectation of exemplary performance in their roles.
Echoing Oyekunle’s sentiments, PSN President, Professor Cyril Usifoh, underscored the indispensable role of pharmacists in healthcare delivery, advocating for their formal recognition as primary healthcare providers. He emphasized the need for enriched drug management systems and public-private partnerships to bolster the effectiveness of the healthcare system.
