Lagos:Pharmacists are essential to healthcare delivery, according to Dr. Folakemi Irewole-Ojo, Medical Director of General Hospital Ebute Metta. She emphasized their vital contributions to improving patient outcomes during the World Pharmacists Day celebration at the hospital.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, World Pharmacists Day, observed annually on September 25, aims to recognize pharmacists’ contributions to healthcare and raise awareness of their roles in enhancing health outcomes. The 2026 celebration, themed ‘Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures,’ focuses on strengthening pharmacists’ roles in healthcare.
Dr. Irewole-Ojo highlighted that pharmacists do more than just dispense medicines; they also provide patient counseling, identify potential drug interactions, and collaborate with doctors on suitable medication plans. She advised patients against self-medication and urged pharmacists to require prescriptions for non-over-the-counter drugs, reinforcing their crucial role in the healthcar
e team.
Mrs. Adebukola Agboola, Director of Pharmaceutical Services, noted that empowered pharmacists help patients use medicines safely and effectively, leading to healthier communities. She warned against self-medication, as it can result in incorrect treatment, adverse side effects, drug interactions, treatment failure, and antibiotic resistance. Seeking professional advice before taking medications, especially antibiotics and painkillers, is essential.
Patients at the hospital expressed their appreciation for the pharmacists and the healthcare services provided. Mrs. Omotunde Yusuf and Mrs. Mojisola Odunsayo both commended the pharmacists and the facility for their dedication to patient care.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that World Pharmacists Day was established by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) in 2009 to promote and advocate for the crucial role of pharmacists in improving global health.