The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria on Monday inducted 85 Nigerian pharmacists trained abroad, urging them to uphold professionalism, integrity and patient-centred care as they begin practising in the country.
The pharmacists were formally admitted into the profession during the oath-taking and induction ceremony for participants of the first cycle of the 2026 Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Orientation Programme held in Abuja.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Registrar of the PCN, Pharm. Ibrahim Ahmed, described the induction as the beginning of a new professional chapter for the inductees.
“Today is not just a ceremonial occasion; it marks the beginning of a new professional journey built on knowledge, experience and a shared commitment to quality healthcare,” Ahmed said.
He commended the pharmacists for returning to Nigeria after obtaining their qualifications abroad, describing the decision as a demonstration of commitment to strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
“Your decision to return and practise in Nigeria reflects courage, dedication and a strong desire to contribute to the advancement of pharmaceutical healthcare,” he stated.
Ahmed said the Council values the international exposure and expertise of the newly inducted pharmacists, expressing confidence that they would enhance collaboration and promote high standards within the profession.
“We value the expertise, diversity and global perspective you bring. We are confident your presence will strengthen collaboration and promote the highest standards of pharmacy practice,” he said.
He reminded the inductees that pharmacy demands integrity, precision, compassion and continuous professional development, urging them to familiarise themselves with Nigeria’s regulatory and ethical standards.
“Let this induction provide an opportunity for you to understand our standards, expectations and shared responsibilities. We are committed to supporting you as you integrate into the healthcare system and thrive in your careers,” Ahmed added.
Chairman of the occasion and the Esu of Karu, Nasarawa State, Pharm. Luka Baba, described the event as a significant milestone for both the pharmacists and Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
“This occasion represents an important milestone, not only in the lives of the inductees but also in the continued strengthening of our nation’s healthcare system,” Baba said.
He noted that the orientation programme had successfully aligned the pharmacists’ international training with Nigeria’s healthcare needs and regulatory requirements.
“This programme has effectively adapted your knowledge and experience to our local healthcare needs and regulatory framework,” he said.
Baba urged the newly inducted pharmacists to see their profession as a calling to serve humanity.
“As you take your oath today, remember that pharmacy is more than a profession; it is a calling founded on integrity, precision and humanity,” he said.
“Our work goes beyond professional practice. It is service to humanity, and by serving humanity, we are serving God.”
He further described pharmacists as a vital link between pharmaceutical science and patient care, saying Nigeria stands to benefit greatly from the expertise and global exposure of the new professionals.
“You are the bridge between pharmaceutical science and patient care. Nigeria needs your knowledge, expertise and dedication now more than ever,” Baba said.
The Foreign Pharmacy Graduate Orientation Programme is organised by the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria to prepare pharmacists who obtained their qualifications outside the country for professional practice in Nigeria.
The programme equips participants with knowledge of Nigeria’s pharmacy laws, ethical standards, healthcare policies and regulatory requirements before they are licensed to practise.
The induction and oath-taking ceremony marks the final stage of the process.
