The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has expressed readiness to collaborate with the Anambra State Government to advance healthcare reforms and expand access to safe and quality medicines.

The association, while congratulating Charles Soludo on his re-election, said the victory reflects the confidence of the people in his leadership and commitment to transformative governance.

In a joint statement by ACPN National Secretary, Omokhafe Ashore, and Chairman of the Anambra State branch, Felix Enendu, the group noted that the governor’s renewed mandate underscores public trust in policies aimed at advancing development across key sectors, including healthcare, education, innovation and technology.

The association said the administration’s governance approach aligns with the aspirations of community pharmacists, particularly in strengthening healthcare systems and improving access to quality medicines.

ACPN commended the government’s efforts to sanitise the pharmaceutical supply chain through the establishment of Coordinated Wholesale Centres (CWCs), including the flagship project in Oba. It noted that the initiative supports the implementation of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines (NDDG), aimed at eliminating substandard and falsified medicines while strengthening regulatory oversight in drug distribution.

The association also praised the administration’s industrialisation drive in the health sector, highlighting the development of the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City (AMIC) in Orumba and the establishment of a pharmaceutical hub in Ogboji.

According to ACPN, these initiatives are expected to boost pharmaceutical manufacturing, promote research and development, and position Anambra as a key destination for drug production and healthcare innovation in West Africa.

The group further recalled the governor’s longstanding advocacy for local drug manufacturing as a pathway to national drug security and self-sufficiency, as well as his engagement with pharmaceutical manufacturers to encourage investment in indigenous research and commercialisation of locally developed therapies.

“The community pharmacy profession remains committed to supporting policies that promote healthcare transformation, strengthen pharmaceutical practice and enhance public health outcomes,” the association stated.

ACPN added that it looks forward to working closely with the Soludo administration to build a knowledge-driven economy and strengthen efforts to position Anambra as a hub for pharmaceutical innovation and healthcare development in Nigeria and the wider West African region.