The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, ACPN, has urged the Federal Government to, without wasting further time, recognise community pharmacies as primary healthcare centres.

ACPN National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, made this declaration in a statement on Wednesday.

Speaking at an event in Abuja to mark this year’s World Pharmacist Day, Ezeh called on the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to officially designate community pharmacies across the country as primary healthcare centres.

He said: “The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria called on the Federal Government to officially designate community pharmacies as Primary Health Care Centres across the nation.

“Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for patients, making them essential in the healthcare system.

“Their accessibility and willingness to provide free consultations enable them to counsel patients on medication safety, potential side effects, drug interactions, and adherence strategies.”

Ezeh further stressed that pharmacists are trusted healthcare professionals who provide essential services, especially in underserved communities.

He urged his colleagues to use the occasion to showcase their collective impact on health systems and to advocate for a future where community pharmacies are recognised as vital components of primary healthcare.