Stakeholders Push Reforms To Strengthen Pharmacy Practice

Stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector have called for strengthened hospital and administrative pharmacy systems to improve the efficient and safe delivery of drugs in public health facilities in Lagos State.

The call was made at a two-day summit for Heads of Pharmacy Units in the Lagos State Public Service between Wednesday, 25th and Thursday, 26th March, 2026, in Lagos, with the theme, “Strengthening Hospital and Administrative Pharmacy Practice for Efficient Pharmaceutical Care Delivery in Lagos State.”

Declaring the summit open, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Kemi Ogunyemi, represented by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, Dr Oluwatoni Adeyemi, described the gathering as timely amid growing demand for patient-centred healthcare.

Ogunyemi commended pharmacists across the state for their dedication, noting that pharmaceutical services remain central to achieving safe and efficient healthcare delivery.

She said, “This retreat comes at a critical time when the demand for safe, efficient and patient-centred healthcare continues to grow. The role of pharmacists remains central to achieving these goals.”

The Special Adviser emphasised that essential medicines constitute a key building block of any health system, adding that strengthening pharmaceutical services would enhance patient safety and improve health outcomes.

She further noted that Lagos health facilities cater not only to residents but also to patients from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, underscoring the far-reaching impact of pharmacists’ work.

Ogunyemi urged participants to leverage the summit for knowledge sharing, innovation and collaboration, encouraging them to co-create practical solutions to challenges facing pharmaceutical practice.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr Dayo Lajide, charged participants to embrace excellence, continuous learning and self-development in their professional journey.

Lajide stressed the importance of diligence and professionalism, noting that civil servants must strive to give their best regardless of recognition or supervision.

She said, “Wherever you find yourself, put in your best. Do not be concerned about who is watching. Your diligence and excellence will speak for you.”