On September 25, 2025, the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) launched a career advancement program to improve pharmacy practice and healthcare delivery.
National Chairman Ambrose Ezeh announced the plan during a press briefing in Abuja for World Pharmacist Day, themed “Think Health, Think Pharmacist.”
Program Details
Ezeh introduced the “Pharmacy Forward: Performance, Collaboration, and Health Transformation” initiative.
It sets clear career paths for community pharmacists with five levels: Community Pharmacist, Senior Community Pharmacist, Specialist, Senior Specialist, and Consultant.
The program promotes ongoing learning, teamwork, and innovation.
Better Health Outcomes
“This plan will improve patient care,” Ezeh said. It aims to enhance medication safety, adherence, and satisfaction by ensuring pharmacists deliver top-quality services.
The structured career path also helps keep talented professionals in the field.
Call for Recognition
Ezeh urged the Nigerian government to designate community pharmacies as Primary Health Care centers.
Pharmacists often serve as patients’ first contact, offering free advice, medication support, and disease management.
Pharmacists’ Role
Community pharmacists contribute to public health through vaccinations, health screenings, and awareness campaigns.
They use telepharmacy and digital tools to reach remote areas, bridging gaps in healthcare access.
Policy and Collaboration
Ezeh highlighted pharmacists’ work in policy advocacy and research. They partner with other healthcare workers to tackle health inequalities and improve care across Nigeria.
World Pharmacist Day
For World Pharmacist Day 2025, Ezeh called on pharmacists to showcase their impact. He pushed for greater recognition of community pharmacies as vital to Nigeria’s healthcare system.
