LAGOS, Nigeria (FN), The Lagos State branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has raised alarm over a worsening shortage of pharmacists across hospitals and health facilities, warning that the crisis threatens patient care and public health.
Speaking at a press briefing, PSN officials said the shortage has reached “critical levels,” with many hospitals operating far below the recommended pharmacist‑to‑patient ratio. They stressed that the situation undermines safe drug dispensing, monitoring of prescriptions, and overall healthcare delivery.
The society demanded urgent government intervention, calling for immediate recruitment drives, improved welfare packages, and policies to retain skilled professionals. According to PSN leaders, many pharmacists are leaving the country due to poor working conditions and limited career growth opportunities, fueling a “brain drain” that has left Nigeria’s health system overstretched.
Civil society groups and health advocates echoed the concerns, warning that without swift action, the shortage could lead to medication errors, longer patient wait times, and increased risks in managing chronic diseases.
The PSN urged the Federal and Lagos State governments to prioritize healthcare workforce planning, noting that pharmacists are essential in achieving universal health coverage and safeguarding lives.
