The NBM of Africa Worldwide has called for stronger recognition and support for pharmacists as frontline partners in Nigeria's healthcare system. This was stated by the President of NBM of Africa Worldwide, Dr. Charles Chimezie, in a goodwill message to mark the 2026 World Pharmacists Day. The day was observed on September 25 and had the theme "Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures."
According to Dr. Chimezie, pharmacists are critical to Nigeria's healthcare architecture due to their roles in medicines management, patient safety, disease prevention, and access to quality healthcare. He noted that their contribution extends beyond dispensing medicines to patient counselling, public health education, disease prevention, medication safety, and supporting other healthcare professionals.
The NBM president acknowledged pharmacists who serve communities and vulnerable populations, particularly those whose professional duties intersect with humanitarian interventions and efforts to improve access to healthcare. He recalled that NBM of Africa Worldwide had consistently promoted interventions aimed at improving the wellbeing of vulnerable people and underserved communities.
Dr. Chimezie emphasized that partnerships between professional bodies, government institutions, healthcare practitioners, and humanitarian organizations are essential to addressing gaps in healthcare access. He urged pharmacists to remain committed to professional ethics, continuous learning, innovation, and service to humanity.
The NBM president also called on governments and relevant stakeholders to create an enabling environment for pharmacists to deploy their expertise more effectively. He advocated for stronger collaboration among pharmacists, doctors, nurses, regulators, and other healthcare professionals to strengthen Nigeria's health system and improve patient outcomes.
Dr. Chimezie congratulated pharmacists in Nigeria and across the world on the celebration, appreciating their dedication to the preservation of lives. He reaffirmed NBM of Africa Worldwide's commitment to supporting initiatives that advance healthcare, humanitarian service, and the wellbeing of vulnerable communities.
The 2026 World Pharmacists Day celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of empowering pharmacists to contribute to healthier futures. The NBM of Africa Worldwide's call for stronger recognition and support for pharmacists aligns with the theme of the celebration.
Key points
- NBM of Africa Worldwide calls for stronger recognition and support for pharmacists in Nigeria's healthcare system.
- Pharmacists play critical roles in medicines management, patient safety, disease prevention, and access to quality healthcare.
- Partnerships between professional bodies, government institutions, and healthcare practitioners are essential to addressing gaps in healthcare access.
