ACPN Urges Tinubu to Include Pharmacists in NHIA Scheme

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to integrate community pharmacists into the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) scheme to improve healthcare access and affordability for Nigerians. This appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, ahead of the ACPN's 45th annual international scientific conference scheduled for July 27 to August 1, 2026.

ACPN Chairman Ambros Ezeh stated that nearly 80% of Nigerians seek healthcare first from community pharmacies rather than hospitals, making pharmacists essential to the primary healthcare system. Ezeh emphasized that integrating community pharmacists into the NHIA framework would enhance access to quality medicine, reduce hospital burdens, and lower healthcare costs.

He also advocated for policy reforms to support transparent reimbursement systems and ensure fair treatment among healthcare providers. The conference aims to strengthen collaboration among healthcare professionals and will feature significant participation from government officials and industry leaders.