2020 as a very challenging year for the nation as the health sector : Dr Samuel Adekola

The National Association of Community Pharmacist of Nigeria held its 39th National Conference today, 1st of October 2020 at the international Conference Center Abuja. Addressing the members of the Association and other the general audience at the conference which was tagged, “ Unity 2020” the National President of Association, Dr Samuel Adekola in his opening address appreciated the members of the Association for their immense contributions towards the growth of Health Care Service Delivery in the Country as well as the growth of the Association. He described the year 2020 as a very challenging year for the nation as the health sector of the nation was stretched to its limit amidst the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. In his words, “ the year 2020 is indeed a very challenging one for Nigeria, a year of struggle for survival of every Nigerian, it is to our greatest relief that we were able to survive this global ordeal without having to sacrifice more in the process” The President of the Association also applauded the role played by the members of the Association during the lockdown, while also encouraging the government at all levels to work towards maximizing the untapped potential of community pharmacists in the nation Also speaking at the event, the honorable Minister of Health, Professor Osagie Ehanire stressed the need for all health professionals to work towards addressing the fundamental health challenges of the people. He also reiterated the readiness of the President Buhari led administration to involve ACPN members in its journey to universal health coverage. Furthermore, Professor Ehanire also acknowledged the pivotal roles played by the ACPN plays in primary healthcare delivery. He appreciated ACPN for its qualitative efficacious delivery of primary health services in the country. In addition, the Health Minister also spoke on the efforts of Buhari’s administration to scale up primary healthcare centers to one per political ward in the country. He equally urged the association to scale up commitment towards ensuring quality services in the primary healthcare and to also enlighten the people on avoidance of abuse of anti malarial and anti bacteria drugs. Among the notable highlight of the event was the award presentation to certain distinguished individuals who have dedicated themselves to advancing qualitative health care service delivery in the country. Honored are the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, the Former Governor of Kano State, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwanso, Senator Sadiq Umar, Senator Matthew Aikagboriodion and late Chief Rufus Folorunso Giwa were also honored. Also the President of the Association, Dr Samuel Adekola was also honored by the Arewa Youth Forum with the Ahmadu Bello Leadership Award for his contributions towards peace in the country.