By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) has tasked Nigerian pharmacists to prioritize Pharmaceutical industry development and research in order to develop the healthcare needs of the country.
The National Chairman of NAIP, Mr. Bankole Ezebuilo made the call in Ilorin while speaking at the 2025 NAIP Kwara Week.
The theme of the programme is entitled: “Technological and Innovative Advancement in the Pharmacy Space”.
According to him, focusing on technology, innovation and research will allow for innovation in drug development, manufacturing, and distribution, while also advancing pharmaceutical knowledge and practice within the country.
“When you talk about the pharmacists, the first thing that comes to your mind is drugs. The industry is our den, without drugs, there is no pharmacy.
“Pharmacists should not leave their den and start playing second fiddle in other people’s den,” he said.
Ezebuilo explained that in the 80’s and 90’s, the pharmacy curriculum was geared towards the industry, Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical technology.
He however observed that in the recent times, its moving towards Clinical Practice, which he described as also good, but insist on striking balance and not jeopardizing technological and innovative advancement in the pharmacy space in Nigeria.
The National Chairman of NAIP pointed out that investing in research and development within the Pharmaceutical industry is crucial for developing new drugs and therapies tailored to the specific needs of the Nigerian population.
He stated that though there are numerous challenges facing the industry including the forex issues, increase in communication and power rates, Nigeria still has high potential, as the return of investment is more, when compared to other countries.
Also speaking, the former Director and Head of Pharmacy of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), Dr. Ibrahim Bello stated that pharmacy has diversified to include other services .
He emphasized on leveraging on technology, while embracing and aligning with what is happening globally like using drones to deliver medication to rural area.
“We can explore using telepharmacy to make consultation between people far and near. New therapies and personalized therapies, can manufacture drugs that will only affect the diseased cells,” he said.
Also in his welcome address, Mr Isaac Salami, the Kwara-NAIP Chairman explained that the NAIP Week is the Annual programme of the association which seeks to improve on best practices of members.
He explained that as industrial pharmacist, members engage in series of conferences and training.
Salami described the theme as apt, adding that technology is dynamic, and that new molecules are being developed which are the basis of technological innovation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that highlight of the event includes the presentation of Icon of Pharmacy Award to an Industrial Pharmacist, Mr Ramon Bioku, the CEO of Bioraj Pharmaceuticals Limited in Ilorin.