Nigerian pharmacists urge adoption of Pharmacy First Initiative

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) is calling on the federal government to adopt the ‘Pharmacy First Initiative’ (PFI) to transform the nation’s healthcare system. ACPN leadership, including National Chairman Ambrose Ezeh and National Secretary Obiageri Ikwu, argues that the initiative is a strategic pathway to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by turning community pharmacies into primary healthcare hubs.

By providing essential drugs, managing uncomplicated diseases, and offering basic screening services, community pharmacies could significantly reduce the burden on secondary and tertiary health facilities. The ACPN is urging all levels of government to invest in this structure to ensure quality, equitable, and people-centered health services.

Supporting this push, Olumide Akintayo, a former president of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, highlighted the need for stronger regulation and professional empowerment to address Nigeria’s historically poor health system performance. Akintayo pointed to the United Kingdom’s model, where significant government investment in the Pharmacy First initiative transformed community pharmacies into primary clinical-care points to support the broader medical infrastructure.