Collaboration key to advancing pharmacy practice, says ACPN chair

The Chairman, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter, Tolu Ajayi, has said the future of pharmacy depends on embracing innovation, fostering collaboration, and prioritising sustainability.

A statement on Tuesday by ACPN said at the 2025 Continuing Education Conference in Lagos, themed “Transforming Community Pharmacy Practice through Collaboration, Research and Innovation,” Ajayi revealed that the conference was to build capacity, enhance competencies, and equip pharmacists with the necessary skills to run successful businesses, while maintaining excellent patient care.

Ajayi cautioned that without a stable business framework, many pharmacies risked closure, ultimately depriving patients of essential medications and healthcare services.

He also stressed the role of research in pharmacy practice, advocating for data-driven decision-making to enhance service delivery.

He said, “Innovation naturally emerges from collaboration and research, leading to improve patient care and the long-term sustainability of pharmacy businesses.”

The Chairman, Drugfield Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Olakunle Ekundayo, spoke about the importance of continuous education in the pharmaceutical industry.

“Healthcare advancements require professionals to stay informed about emerging technologies, products, and best practices.

“There should be stronger collaborations between pharmacists and local manufacturers.

“Pharmacists could pool resources to purchase medications in bulk at discounted rates, ensuring affordability and accessibility for Nigerians,” he said.

Also, a Consultant Physician and Interventional Cardiologist from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Dr. Ramon Moronkola, emphasised the role of accurate blood pressure measurement in managing hypertension.

“Hypertension is a leading cause of ischemic stroke, and it’s essential to take it seriously.

“Measuring blood pressure appropriately is key to managing hypertension,” he said.

Moronkola mentioned the importance of using validated blood pressure monitors, stating that “only about 15-20 per cent of all blood pressure machines are validated.”

He also emphasised the need for patient education and involvement in monitoring their blood pressure.

“We must teach patients how to use their machines correctly and provide them with information on how to manage their condition,” he added.

A renowned expert in malaria treatment, Prof AbdulQuadr Muhammad, said treatment failure is not equal to resistance.

He emphasised that treatment failure could be caused by various factors, including dosing problems, vomiting, and misdiagnosis.

“We need to be careful not to misrepresent treatment failure as resistance,” he cautioned.