ACPN Calls for Pharmacy Sector Reforms Amid Migration Crisis

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has urged for immediate reforms in the pharmacy sector, citing concerns over the migration of pharmacists, weak regulatory frameworks, and increasing substance abuse. This call was made during the ACPN's 45th Annual National Scientific Conference in Abuja, themed around strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.

ACPN National Chairman, Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma, revealed that approximately 9,000 pharmacists have emigrated from Nigeria over the past four and a half years, ending in December 2025. He attributed this exodus to factors such as inadequate remuneration, delayed enforcement of drug distribution guidelines, and poorly coordinated medicine procurement systems.

Igwekamma also highlighted the rising prevalence of drug and substance abuse, linking it to unemployment, poverty, peer pressure, weak drug law enforcement, porous borders, and inadequate prescription controls. He called on the government and stakeholders to enhance regulatory enforcement, improve pharmacists' welfare, and address issues within the pharmaceutical supply chain to retain skilled health professionals and ensure access to quality medicines.