The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), the Ogun chapter, has disclosed plans to educate secondary school students on the dangers of drug abuse in the state.

In a statement on Monday, PSN chair Adewale Adenugba said it was part of the association’s activities marking the 2023 World Pharmacist Day.

Mr Adenugba added that the association would also visit prisons and orphanages, providing drugs to communities lacking basic amenities.

“We would also be visiting the Nigeria Correctional Service and orphanages within the state to show our empathy and support. Some of our secondary schools will also be visited for health talk on drug abuse and addiction and, of course, engagement with the media for continuous education of the populace.”

“In recognition of the crucial roles pharmacists play in healthcare administration and promotion, for the 2023 celebration, we intend to carry out medical outreaches to key communities in the state. The association will carry out basic necessary investigations, health education and donation of medications in those communities,” added Mr Adenugba.

According to him, celebrating the day acknowledges pharmacists’ efforts while demanding better working conditions and appropriate professional recognition.

Mr Adenugba contended that pharmacists remained the most accessible healthcare professionals in most communities, presenting available and affordable healthcare solutions to the populace and improving health standards across the country.

He, however, urged that, as experts on medicine, pharmacists should be allowed to prescribe and initiate medications.

Mr Adenugba, however, noted that “there is still a wide range of other needs that can be met by community pharmacists in Nigeria, which would relieve pressure on and save time for other areas of the health system.”

“Pharmacists also have the skills to take on the management of patients with long-term conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and HIV and many community pharmacists have shown tremendous success in this regard,” said Mr Adenugba. 

(NAN)