PCN Inducts 175 Foreign-trained Pharmacists, Urges Professional Excellence

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) on Friday inducted 175 foreign-trained pharmacists after the successful completion of the 2025 Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Orientation Programme (FPGOP).

Speaking during the induction ceremony in Abuja, the PCN Registrar, Pharm. Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, urged the inductees to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards as they begin their careers in Nigeria.

He highlighted the importance of the FPGOP as a bridge between international training and local practice realities. “The FPGOP was organised to ensure that graduands are acquainted with the realities of practice in the tropics, with emphasis on Nigeria. As newly inducted pharmacists, I urge you to maintain high ethical conduct and leadership standards set forth by the PCN,” he said.

Ahmed reminded the new pharmacists of the statutory 12-month internship required before they can fully practice, stressing that the period remains a crucial phase for capacity building and future career opportunities.

He also underscored the importance of the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) programme, describing it as essential for licensure and consistent with global health workforce standards.

“The rapid development of science and patient safety issues requires pharmacists to maintain and update their competencies at all times,” he noted.

The registrar warned against professional misconduct, stating that erring practitioners would face investigations and possible disciplinary actions, including removal from the professional register.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the PCN Governing Council, Pharm.  Wosilat Giwa, commended the inductees for completing what she described as a rigorous and transformative programme.

“To our inductees, I say welcome home.You have crossed borders, navigated different educational systems, and conquered the rigors of the FPGOP to prove your readiness for the Nigerian pharmaspace,” Giwa said.

She emphasised the critical role pharmacists play in public health, especially at a time when Nigeria is prioritising local drug manufacturing, strengthening primary healthcare, and expanding research and innovation.

“As you take your oath today, remember that to whom much is given, much is expected,” she said.

Giwa urged the new pharmacists to embrace lifelong learning in line with global advancements such as Artificial Intelligence, personalized medicine, and biotechnology.

She commended the PCN leadership and staff for their commitment to the programme and thanked parents and guardians for supporting the graduates.