Abuja: The Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency has achieved a major milestone by graduating its first set of pharmacy interns after a one-year training programme. The Director-General, NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje, performed the ceremony during the working visit of the House of Representatives Committee on Legislative Compliance to the agency.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, NNMDA was accredited by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria to serve as an internship centre for graduates of pharmacy from various universities. Emeje mentioned that the agency took in five best graduating students from their respective universities, and four of them had successfully completed the programme. He noted that the training was not only professional but also emphasised morals and ethics with a minimum standard of behaviour expected from the interns.
The director-general stated that even with excellent academic credentials, interns who fail to meet the expected standards of behaviour would be sent away, whereas outstanding performers are encouraged and recognised for their positive attitudes. The best intern of the year, a lady, was selected and awarded a prize, highlighting the agency’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence. Emeje expressed that this achievement marks a significant step in the agency’s efforts to produce highly skilled and ethical pharmacists who will make a positive impact in the healthcare sector.
From Left to Right: Miss Barakat Muritala, best intern; the Chairman, House Committee on Legislative Compliance, Mr Badau Ahmed; the Director-General, NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje. Responding to the award bestowed on her as best intern, Miss Barakat Muritala, a Graduate of Igbinedion University, expressed appreciation for the award and interest in pursuing a career in traditional medicine. Muritala shared her experience as an intern, where she gained valuable knowledge and skills under the guidance of her mentor.
She described her experience as lovely and appreciated the opportunity to learn from her mentor, the NNMDA director-general, adding that he provided constructive feedback and guidance. Muritala was hopeful of implementing the knowledge and skills she had acquired in her future career with a focus on traditional medicine.