Pharmacists beg Tinubu to call them real doctors

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria urged the Federal Government to recognise community pharmacies as primary health care centers without delay. National Chairman Ambrose Ezeh delivered the message in a Wednesday statement and at an Abuja event marking this year’s World Pharmacist Day, seeking formal designation across the country under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He said pharmacists often serve as the first point of contact for patients and form an essential link in the system. He noted their easy access and readiness to give free consultations that guide safe medicine use, potential side effects, drug interactions, and adherence. He also urged colleagues to highlight their collective impact and press for a future where community pharmacies stand as core parts of primary health care, especially in underserved areas.