By: Annabel
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has urged the federal government to review the leadership structure of the country’s healthcare system to ensure greater inclusivity and professionalism.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, in response to recent remarks by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) regarding hospital leadership and inter-professional collaboration, the association expressed concern over the continued dominance of physician-led administration in federal health institutions, a policy that has been in place since 1985.
The association acknowledged the important role of doctors; but argued that hospital administration requires specialized management skills that go beyond clinical expertise.
The ACPN pointed to persistent challenges such as high infant and maternal mortality rates, weak health logistics systems, and underinvestment in preventive care as indicators that the current model could benefit from review.
It also raised concerns over what it perceives as limited recognition of the roles of other health professionals in decision-making processes, and cited recent debates over the Consultant Pharmacist Cadre as an example where collaboration could enhance service delivery.
According to Mr Ezeh, collaborative leadership could help resolve many of the challenges facing the sector, and called for reforms that reflect global best practices and prioritize service efficiency.
The ACPN reaffirmed its commitment to working with all stakeholders, including physicians, to achieve a system that better serves the needs of all Nigerians.
The association called on the government to consider structural adjustments that promote collaboration among all health workers, adding that a more inclusive leadership framework could strengthen public confidence and service efficiency in the healthcare system.
