To enhance the integrity of drug distribution in Lagos State, pharmacists have urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to establish a Coordinated Wholesale Centre (CWC) similar to the one in Kano State, aimed at tackling the issue of counterfeit medications.
Pharmacists, representing the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria’s Lagos State chapter, assert that a CWC in Lagos would significantly mitigate drug abuse and the sale of counterfeit and expired products.
During an event in Lagos on Wednesday marking the 2024 World Pharmacists Day, themed “Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs,” they emphasized the necessity for such a facility in the state. Celebrated annually on September 25, World Pharmacists Day is organized by the International Pharmaceutical Federation to honor the vital role pharmacists play in fostering healthier communities worldwide.
This year’s theme highlighted pharmacists as essential members of healthcare systems, focusing on their pivotal role in addressing community health needs. Babayemi Oyekunle, Chairman of the Lagos State chapter of PSN, remarked that a centralized wholesale center would enhance regulation of drug distribution and ensure traceability.
Oyekunle stated, “It is high time Lagos State established a Coordinated Wholesale Centre, following the example of Kano State. This will allow us to trace every drug entering the state, eradicating the sale of adulterated, substandard, and counterfeit drugs by identifying the sources of all medications consumed by Lagos residents.” He continued, “Creating this center is essential, as Lagos has the highest population in Nigeria.
The state should adopt global best practices. Worldwide, drug sources can be traced, yet in Lagos, we lack this capability.” Oyekunle also urged the Lagos State Government to act on the circulars regarding the consultancy cadre for pharmacists.
He noted, “It is important to mention that all six other southwestern states have successfully implemented the Consultant Pharmacists Cadre, leaving Lagos as the only state where this issue remains unresolved.
Moreover, immediate implementation of the circular regarding the new entry point and other allowances for Pharm.D holders is critical. The PSN Lagos State once again calls on the Lagos State Government to expedite action on these and other pending agreements to avert potential labor unrest that could impact the health sector.”
Supporting his position, Tolulope Ajayi, Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Lagos State chapter, emphasized the significance of patient care in healthcare delivery and advocated for a comprehensive approach. Ajayi urged the government to show the political will needed to establish a CWC to regulate drug distribution.
“If a Coordinated Wholesale Centre is not established, counterfeit drugs will continue to infiltrate our system unchecked,” he warned.
He pointed out that the lack of coordinated wholesale centers is a key factor contributing to the rise of illegal medicine stores across the country.
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