The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has officially declared the month of October as Pharmacy Rx Emblem Month to celebrate professionalism, public trust, and the growing importance of community pharmacies in the nation’s healthcare system.
The declaration was made by the National Chairman of the association, Pharm. Ezeh Ambrose Igwekamma, during a press conference held on October 4, 2025, where he emphasized that the move was aimed at strengthening confidence in community pharmacies as the first line of access to quality healthcare across Nigeria.
Pharm. Ezeh described the declaration as a milestone in the nation’s health sector, stressing that it was not just symbolic but a strong statement reaffirming the central role of pharmacists in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of citizens. According to him, the Rx emblem recognized globally as a mark of trust, professionalism, and healing also represents a standard of authenticity and a commitment to excellence within the pharmaceutical profession.
He noted that dedicating a month to the emblem serves as a reminder that community pharmacies are more than dispensing centers; they are health sanctuaries where patients can access expert pharmaceutical care, genuine medicines, and reliable health advice. “By dedicating this month to the emblem, we are showcasing our community pharmacy premises as unique sanctuaries where patients and the public can confidently access genuine medicines, professional pharmaceutical care, and comprehensive healthcare services,” he said.
Ezeh expressed concern over the rising threat of counterfeit and substandard drugs in the market, calling for stronger collaboration between government agencies, pharmacists, and the public to ensure medicine safety. He stated that community pharmacists play an essential role in combating the spread of fake drugs and promoting rational use of medicines, particularly at the grassroots level where access to hospitals remains limited.
He emphasized that community pharmacies have evolved into vital health hubs, offering a wide range of services such as patient counseling, chronic disease management, preventive care, and wellness support. According to him, this evolution demonstrates the capacity of pharmacists to bridge healthcare gaps, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Pharm. Ezeh urged Nigerians to view community pharmacists as key partners in public health, pointing out that they are often the first point of contact for millions of people seeking medical assistance. He also called on governments at all levels to provide policy support and better infrastructure to strengthen pharmacy practice in the country.
In his closing remarks, the ACPN Chairman reaffirmed the association’s commitment to professionalism, ethics, and public service. He said the declaration of October as Pharmacy Rx Emblem Month would help raise awareness about the indispensable contributions of pharmacists to the nation’s healthcare system.
“Together, let us make the Rx emblem shine as a trusted guide to safe medicines, professional care, and healthier living,” he concluded.
The ACPN reiterated its readiness to work closely with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to strengthen public health systems and ensure that community pharmacy practice continues to promote safe, accessible, and people-centered healthcare across Nigeria.