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The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, PSN, on Sunday says it has commenced agricultural ventures for revenue generation to the society in Kwara State, North-Central, Nigeria.
Mr Mohammed Abdulmalik, the state chairman of PSN, disclosed this in Ilorin on the sidelines of the orientation of newly elected executives of the society.
He observed that the society has opted for self-reliance and fund generation, adding that society has explored lucrative avenues such as acquiring lands for agriculture and rural pharmacy projects.
According to him, society will focus on cash crops and will utilise some acres of land in the Ballah community in the Asa Local overnment area of the state.
He explained that already farming has commenced for the rainy season and would also be extended to other seasons.
The PSN chairman explained further that the Rural Pharmacy Project is a joint initiative of the society and the Association of Hospital Pharmacists of Nigeria (AHPN).
He noted that pharmacy outlets would be established in rural areas so that communities would have access to essential good drugs and medicines at affordable prices.
“Presently we are organising the project at Bode-Sadu, in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara by the committee in association with AHPN.
“The Olusin of Ijara Isin community in Isin Local Government Area of Kwara, Oba Ajibola Ademola Julius, has declared his support for the rural pharmacy project and it will commence soon,” he said.
Abdulmalik also disclosed that the association is also exploring manufacturing bottle water while observing that the product would be widely accepted and trusted since it is from society.
Similarly, the Kwara-PSN boss added that it is collaborating with various agencies to tackle the menace of drug abuse in the state.
According to him, the society will partner the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) on sanitising the proliferation of patent medicine shops haphazardly distributed without due process across the state.
The new PSN officials were trained by various resource persons on how to effectively carry out their duties. Reports said.
Prof. Isaac Aremu, a Lecturer of Pharmaceutics and Industrial Pharmacy, University of Ilorin, who spoke on “Discipline and Work Ethics,” advised them to be reliable, honest and truthful in their course of duties.
He observed that good character leads to a good attitude and that members should strictly adhere to professionalism.
On her part, Mrs Felicia Akande, a PCN Regulator, Kwara Office, reminded members of the need to ensure safe and effective use of medicines.
She observed that the development of any nation depends largely on the health system.
Akande also advised members on dressing to inspire confidence in their clients and patients.
Earlier, Mr Bioku Rahamon, the Managing Director of Bioraj Pharmaceutical, emphasised the importance of training to members.
He noted that the theme of the training: “Professionalism, Stewardship and Progress”, is apt, as it will impart ethics on members.
He also tasked members on the need to be involved in politics so as to impact decision-making on the health system.
NAN/Shakirat Sadiq