By Gloria Osemudiamhen
The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Anani, has advocated the need for pharmacists and relevant stakeholders to crack down on fake drugs as token of accountability, and prioritizing public health.
Mrs. Anani made the call when she received delegates of the Association of Hospitals and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHAPN), at Government House in Benin City, where she appealed to pharmacists to prioritize public safety by taking a firm stance against fake drugs and to implement stricter controls.
According to Mrs. Anani, “I would like to appeal to pharmacists to take stronger stance against fake drugs. It’s unacceptable that some pharmacists knowingly sell ineffective medications, putting lives at risk. There should be stricter monitoring and severe penalties for those caught. The lack of accountability perpetuates impunity.
“As healthcare professionals, they’re humanitarians dedicated to saving lives. In the course of your Conference, let this issue be discussed thoroughly; raise awareness about it as a threat to public health.”
Speaking on AHAPN’s upcoming Conference, Mrs. Anani reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to healthcare initiatives. She highlighted the significance of free health outreaches, emphasizing that they demonstrate the importance of partnership and civic responsibility in promoting health and well-being. She acknowledged the vital role pharmacists play in healthcare service delivery, noting that such contributions are crucial to improved public health. She appreciated the Association’s dedication and advocated for more recognition and support for pharmacists in Nigeria, urging them to be noble and credible in the discharge of their duties.
The Team Lead, Pharm. Jacob Egharevba, who appreciated Mrs. Anani’s open-door policy, disclosed that their Association was set to host a major Conference on healthcare from August 4th to 9th, 2025 in Edo State. He added that the event would feature a health walk and outreach on the first day, which has been approved by the local governments. He solicited the presence of Mrs. Anani, saying this year’s focus is on combating drug abuse, and that pharmacists from across the Country will participate.
