The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has voiced deep concern regarding the departure of at least 9,000 pharmacists from the country over the last four years. During the organization’s 45th annual scientific conference in Abuja, National Chairman Pharmacist Ambrose Ezeh labeled this trend an unfortunate development that demands urgent government intervention.
The issue shows no sign of slowing down. Ezeh reported that during the first half of 2026, over 850 pharmacists requested letters of good standing to facilitate their relocation to destinations like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and the United States. Professionals are reportedly leaving due to inadequate compensation, fragmented medicine procurement systems, and the slow implementation of national drug distribution policies.
Ezeh warned that this significant loss of talent is causing a severe workforce shortage, threatening patient safety and the long-term stability of the Nigerian healthcare system. He urged authorities to bolster the industry by supporting legislative measures that address these systemic obstacles and improve the professional environment for those remaining in the country.
