The Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy has expressed urgent recommendations for enhanced investment in pharmaceutical research, local medicine production, and technological advancements. These actions are deemed essential for strengthening Nigeria’s health security and decreasing dependence on imported essential medicines.
Prof. Lere Baale, President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the academy, emphasized the necessity for the nation to evolve from its reliance on foreign pharmaceutical products as Nigeria confronts emerging health challenges. He stated that establishing a resilient and self-sufficient pharmaceutical industry is crucial for addressing current and future health issues.
As the academy prepares for its 2026 annual general meeting and the investiture of new fellows, scheduled for November 16 and 17 in Lagos, Baale highlighted the interconnection between health security and the nation’s economic independence and scientific capabilities. He called for a unified national strategy for pharmaceutical development.
In a statement, Secretary-General Lekan Asuni reiterated the organization’s commitment to prioritizing national health security. This priority is seen as increasingly vital due to growing healthcare demands, emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and difficulties in the supply of medicines.
The upcoming meetings will explore ways Nigeria can utilize pharmaceutical expertise, research, scientific innovation, technology, and regulatory improvements to create a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system. The theme for the event is ‘Pharmacy for National Health Security: Advancing Innovation, Medicine Sovereignty and Sustainable Healthcare.’
A keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Pavel Ursu, the World Health Organisation Representative and Head of Mission in Nigeria, on November 17. The two-day agenda will also see the investiture of new fellows, honoring their professional achievements and contributions to pharmacy and society.
Baale urged that receiving a fellowship should inspire professionals to take on responsibilities contributing to national development. The academy’s admission of new fellows aims to enhance its influence in promoting scientific progress, professional standards, and evidence-based policies related to national health.
The annual general meeting will take place on November 16, at 11 am at the Business School Netherlands, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, with attendance limited to academy fellows. The investiture ceremony, which is open to the public, will be held on November 17 at the Old Great Hall, College of Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, welcoming policymakers, healthcare executives, researchers, and the media.
