Oyo PSN announces 9-day programme to spotlight pharmacists’ role in healthcare delivery, medication safety and innovation
The Oyo State Branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) will host a week-long celebration of the 2026 World Pharmacists Day from Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, September 27, 2026, with Governor Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde expected as Chief Host.
Other top dignitaries billed for the event include PSN National President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, keynote speaker Pharm. Lekan Asuni, MD/CEO of Lefas Pharmaceutical, and guest speaker Mr. John Alamu, MD/CEO of CapitalSage Holdings and Johnvents Group.
Themed “Empowering Pharmacist for a Healthier Future,” the celebration will bring together government officials, healthcare professionals, pharmaceutical industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders across Oyo State to examine the evolving role of pharmacists in public health and healthcare delivery.
Chairman of the World Pharmacists’ Day 2026 Planning Committee, Adebayo Olukayode Gbadamosi, said the programme is designed to celebrate professional achievements and push for greater integration of pharmacists into health policy.
“World Pharmacists Day is our opportunity to celebrate and make visible the profession’s contributions to better health outcomes,” Gbadamosi said. “Strengthening the profession remains essential to building resilient and future-ready health systems.”
Host and Chairman of PSN Oyo State Branch, Pharm. (Col.) Victor Segun Ajanaku (rtd), FPSN, FCAI, said the theme reflects the branch’s commitment to professional excellence and improved patient care. He noted that pharmacists are essential partners in how medicines are prescribed, dispensed and managed in hospitals and communities.
PSN National President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim, FPSN, called for stronger policies and investments to enable pharmacists to play a more integrated role within health systems. He aligned with the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) on the need for support in pharmacy education, professional development and full integration into healthcare delivery.
In his remarks, keynote speaker Pharm. Lekan Asuni, FPSN, FNAPharm, said the changing healthcare landscape requires pharmacists to move beyond drug supply. He identified medication safety, adherence, antimicrobial stewardship, pharmacovigilance, chronic disease management and public health programmes as key areas for impact. Asuni also urged government to provide appropriate financing and remuneration for services such as vaccination, screening and medication reviews.
Guest Speaker John Alamu emphasized continuous professional development and the adoption of digital health technologies. He said regular training and research will help pharmacists expand their impact through counselling, monitoring treatment outcomes and preventive healthcare.
Governor Makinde, who will attend alongside First Lady Tamunominini Makinde as Special Guest of Honour, described pharmacists as critical custodians of medicines and drugs. He reaffirmed the Oyo State Government’s support for the profession, particularly in drug safety, supply-chain management and primary healthcare delivery.
The event will be chaired by Engr. (Chief) O. O. Oyetade, FNSE, FNIHTE, while Pharm. (Chief) Rahamon Jimoh Bioku, FPSN, FNAPharm, JP, Founder/CEO of BIORAJ Pharmaceutical, will also make special contributions.
Activities lined up across designated venues in Oyo State will culminate in a red-carpet Awards Night on Sunday, September 27, 2026, to recognize practitioners for dedication and service.
CEOAFRICA is the Official Media Partner for the celebration and will provide full coverage.
Organisers have invited members of the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors, policymakers, industry leaders and the general public to participate as stakeholders unite to promote professional excellence and advance a stronger, patient-centred healthcare system.
