PSN
From the Pharmacy Counter to the Frontline of Care: PSN President Sets Out a Broader Role for Pharmacists
Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria President Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim has urged pharmacists to look beyond medicine dispensing and strengthen their roles in patient care, health education, counselling and public health.
The role of pharmacists must extend beyond dispensing medicines to include patient education, counselling, advocacy, public health and broader participation in healthcare delivery, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria President Pharm. Ayuba Tanko Ibrahim has said.
In his World Pharmacists Day 2026 address, Tanko described pharmacists as healthcare professionals who contribute to patient care in multiple ways, including helping patients understand their medicines and promoting their safe and effective use.
He said pharmacists also serve as educators, counsellors, advocates and scientists, making them important partners in healthcare delivery.
Accessibility places pharmacists close to patients
Tanko highlighted the accessibility of pharmacists, noting that they are among the most accessible healthcare professionals.
According to him, interaction with a pharmacist can help patients address health concerns, receive professional guidance and understand when further care may be required.
He said this accessibility creates an opportunity for pharmacists to contribute meaningfully to public health.
The President's comments come as pharmacy practice continues to expand beyond the traditional supply of medicines towards patient-centred services and health promotion.
Keeping pace with a changing healthcare system
Tanko also pointed to rapid changes taking place across healthcare, including wearable sensors, artificial intelligence, digital health, new medicines, personalised treatment and precision medicine.
He urged pharmacists to evolve alongside these developments by continuing to learn, adopting appropriate technologies and embracing evidence-based approaches.
At the centre of this evolution, he said, must remain the patient.
Tanko emphasised that the pharmacist of the future should combine knowledge of medicines with compassion, ethical practice, innovation and a commitment to lifelong learning.
For Nigerian pharmacy practice, the message places greater emphasis on the pharmacist's contribution to healthcare beyond the pharmacy counter – from helping patients use medicines safely to supporting prevention and public health.