Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sade Oguntola
Published on 2024-02-22 06:35:56
The call to the Federal Government to prioritize a stable forex market and curb inflation in Nigeria in order to ensure the accessibility of lifesaving medicines has been made by Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Vanguard Pharmacy, Mr Taofeek Odukoya. This call was made at the opening of the 11th outlet of Vanguard Pharmacy in Ibadan. Odukoya emphasized the importance of a synergy of all stakeholders in tackling the challenges that are detrimental to safe, high-quality medications in the country.
Vanguard Pharmacy, which integrates pharmacy, veterinary, supermarket, and bakery, is committed to combatting counterfeit drugs and providing smart health benefits for Nigerians to benefit from high-quality medicines. Odukoya stated, “At Vanguard Pharmacy, we don’t just provide medicines; we empower our customers. That is why we have integrated the pharmacy, veterinary, supermarket, and bakery under one roof, a testimony to our core values of excellence, innovation, and customer-centric approach. We offer a wide range of affordable options to ensure your health never suffers due to cost or a compromised quality of medications.”
The importance of having pharmacies like Vanguard Pharmacy across the country that are committed to standards and professionalism was emphasized by Brigadier General (Dr) Adekola Dada (rtd), a former Chief Medical Director of 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Yaba. He highlighted the worsening issue of counterfeiting of medicines due to Nigeria’s economic situation and stressed the significance of genuine drugs in patient care.
The National Chairman of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Mr Adewale Oladigbolu, also stressed the importance of pharmacies in providing quality medicines, drug information, and reducing harm from side effects of medicines. He stated, “Pharmacy premises are not only for procuring medicines; you also procure health information. So the proliferation of pharmacies will help drive a good understanding of Nigeria’s health. With more health information, more people will leave healthier and better lives.”
In light of these statements, it is evident that the availability of quality medicines in Nigeria is dependent on the stability of the forex market and the ability to curb inflation. Additionally, the presence of pharmacies like Vanguard Pharmacy, which are committed to providing high-quality medications and health information, plays a crucial role in ensuring the well-being of the Nigerian population. It is essential for the Federal Government and all stakeholders to work together to address the challenges that pose a threat to the accessibility of safe and effective medications in the country.
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