The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has called on the Federal Government to urgently address what it describes as longstanding favoritism towards medical doctors in the administration of the country’s health sector.

PSN President, Pharm. Ayuba Tanko IbrahimIn a statement made available to Daily Independent urged the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure fairness and a level playing field for all health professionals, warning that continued preferential treatment undermines the unity and efficiency of Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Ibrahim expressed concern over the alleged bias in health policies and governance, which he said has consistently sidelined pharmacists and other non-physician health professionals.

“We call on the Federal Government to ensure fairness and equity among all health professionals,” he said. “There has been too much bias in the management of our health system, and it is time to correct this.”

Pharm. Ibrahim noted that the current structure of the health sector continues to breed disunity and inefficiency due to policies that appear to favour one group over others. He stressed that all professional groups—including pharmacists, nurses, laboratory scientists, and other allied health workers—deserve equal recognition, respect, and opportunity to contribute meaningfully to healthcare delivery.

He said, “Pharmacy and other professions within the health sector deserve the same recognition, consideration, and opportunities to serve. The time has come to eliminate favoritism and bias in the sector. We need a health system that rewards competence, not connections.”

The PSN President further warned that persistent discrimination and marginalization of other health professionals not only threatens professional harmony but could also compromise patient outcomes and the overall effectiveness of the healthcare delivery system.

Pharm. Ibrahim concluded by urging the government to adopt inclusive policies that recognize the vital roles played by all healthcare professionals, emphasizing that true reform must be driven by equity, collaboration, and mutual respect. (Saturday Independent)