The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has commended indigenous pharmaceutical manufacturing companies for their resilience and contribution to the nation’s healthcare system, despite prevailing economic and infrastructural challenges.
In a press release issued ahead of its 44th Annual International Conference, scheduled to take place from 22nd to 27th July 2025 in Awka, Anambra State, the association lauded local manufacturers for boosting access to essential medicines, supporting public health, and contributing to national economic growth.
Themed “Technology Integration, Personalised Care: The Future of Community Pharmacy Practice,” this year’s conference aims to spotlight how community pharmacists can leverage emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence, telepharmacy, and electronic health records—to deliver more patient-centred and efficient care.
The National Chairman of ACPN, Pharm. Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma, urged the Nigerian government to strengthen its support for the pharmaceutical sector through targeted incentives that would ease the importation of raw materials and scale up domestic production.
“There should be a deliberate special incentive for the pharmaceutical industry to aid import of materials and production of pharmaceutical products,” Igwekamma stated.
He further emphasised that expanding local pharmaceutical manufacturing would not only enhance self-sufficiency and improve medicine affordability and accessibility, but also boost job creation, spur international trade, and position Nigeria more competitively under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The 2025 conference is expected to draw over 3,000 delegates, including pharmacists, researchers, policymakers, healthcare entrepreneurs, technologists, and representatives from across the health sector, both locally and internationally.
Conference highlights will include:
- A symbolic walk against fake and counterfeit medicines
- Technical and policy sessions
- An exhibition of healthcare innovations
- Cultural performances to celebrate national heritage
The ACPN reiterated its longstanding commitment to strengthening the pharmaceutical regulatory framework, particularly through advocating amendments to the Fake Drug and Unwholesome Processed Foods Act, as a key strategy in combating the proliferation of substandard and counterfeit drugs in Nigeria.
As preparations intensify, the association has called on health professionals, government bodies, investors, and development partners to work collaboratively in modernising community pharmacy practice for a more resilient and healthier Nigeria.