PSN President Reveals Over 7,000 Pharmacists Have Relocated Abroad in Two Years 

By Adeke Chukwuka

Prof. Cyril Usifoh, President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), revealed that in the last two years, more than 7,000 pharmacists have left Nigeria.

This statement was made at the 96th annual conference of PSN in Gombe State, focusing on the theme “Pharmaceutical Practice: A Pivot to Universal Health Coverage in Nigeria.”

His visit aimed to assess the association’s efforts over the past year and devise strategies for enhancing the health sector. He emphasized the PSN’s role in fostering self-sufficiency and enhancing healthcare in Nigeria.

 Expressing worry over the prevalent issue of brain drain, he highlighted that pharmacists were leaving Nigeria for better practice conditions abroad, posing a significant challenge to the health sector, demanding urgent attention for the well-being of Nigerians.

Usifoh emphasized the need for the government to establish a favorable environment for pharmacists, encouraging them to stay in Nigeria and contribute to its progress.

He advocated for partnerships with the government to enhance the health sector, suggesting that creating opportunities and a conducive environment would prevent brain drain. 

He expressed confidence that with the right conditions, there could be a “brain gain” where professionals return to the country. Additionally, he discussed plans to collaborate with the government, focusing on industrial parks and the establishment of pharmaceutical company outlets in the state.

He highlighted that conference attendees, including members and industrialists, are actively seeking partnerships with the Gombe State government to harness the potential opportunities within the pharmaceutical industry in the state.