By: Manoah Kikekon
YOLA, ADAMAWA STATE — The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has issued a high-stakes call to action, urging federal and state governments to treat pharmacy education as a cornerstone of national security.
At the 2026 Pharmacy Colloquium, stakeholders argued that Nigeria’s path to healthcare self-sufficiency is blocked by underfunded institutions and a growing "brain drain" crisis.
The event, held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House in Yola, served as a platform for experts to highlight the urgent need for a modern, well-funded educational framework. Without it, they warned, Nigeria’s aspirations for a resilient healthcare system will remain a distant dream.
The colloquium opened with a significant policy victory. Representing Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Deputy Governor Professor Kaletapwa Farauta announced the approval of a brand-new College of Pharmacy at Adamawa State University, Mubi.
This move was hailed by the PSN as a "benchmark" for other states. By establishing dedicated centers for pharmaceutical learning, the government is providing the physical infrastructure necessary to breed the next generation of drug manufacturing experts and clinical pharmacists.
PSN President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, emphasized that pharmacy training must shift from a purely academic pursuit to a strategic national investment. He advocated for:
Pharm.D Transition: Accelerating the shift to the Doctor of Pharmacy degree to align with global standards.
Workforce Retention: Strengthening the Consultant Pharmacist cadre to give specialists a clear career path and stem the migration of talent abroad.
Practical Infrastructure: Enhancing the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) and internship programs to bridge the gap between theory and industry.
"Building a globally competitive pharmaceutical sector depends on sustained investment in education and research. Without deliberate funding, our health security remains at risk." PSN Communiqué.
Keynote speaker Pharm. (Prof.) Cyril Odianose Usifoh addressed the "disconnect" between current academic qualifications and actual healthcare outcomes. He challenged institutions to adopt competency-based training that prioritizes critical thinking and patient-centered care.
Furthermore, the society called for the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital health systems into the curriculum. By embracing tech, Nigerian pharmacists can lead in drug discovery and data-driven patient management. There was also a strong push to commercialize Nigeria’s rich biodiversity, turning indigenous medicinal plants into standardized, viable therapeutic options.
The discussions were anchored on the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) Act 2022. Former PSN President Pharm. Ahmed I. Yakasai noted that this legislation provides the necessary "teeth" for regulatory oversight, ensuring that public resources are used effectively to safeguard public health and maintain professional accountability.