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Pharm. Murtala Umar Image credit: Adam S.A- DanAlhaji Photos |
In this exclusive interview, Pharm. Murtala Isa Umar, the PSN Chairman Kano State Chapter, discusses the challenges facing the pharmaceutical sector in Kano, including the proliferation of non-professionals and counterfeit drugs. He outlines the strategies employed by the PSN Chapter to address these issues, such as collaborations with regulatory bodies and community engagement initiatives. Pharm. Murtala Isa Umar also shares his vision for the future of pharmacy in Kano, emphasizing professional development and excellence in practice.
Educational Background and Professional Journey
Interviewer: Can you share your educational background and professional journey that led to your current position as PSN Chairman Kano State Chapter?
PSN Chairman: I graduated from the University of Jos, one of the pioneering institutions offering Pharmacy programs in northern Nigeria. I completed my internship at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and served my National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the National Assembly Clinic in Abuja. Subsequently, I pursued my MBA while working at Aminu Kano. I also obtained a master's degree in Health Economics from Bayero University Kano (BUK) in 2015. Furthermore, I was inducted as a Fellow of the West African College of Pharmacy in 2014 and commenced my PharmD program at the University of Benin.
Inspiration to Pursue a Career in Pharmacy
Interviewer: What inspired you to pursue a career in pharmacy?
PSN Chairman: During my secondary school days, I was unsure about my career path. However, a team of Kassosa alumni visited our school for career guidance, and one of the pharmacists left a lasting impression on me. His presentation sparked my interest in pharmacy, particularly since I excelled in chemistry.
Challenges Facing the Pharmaceutical Sector in Kano
Interviewer: What are the most significant challenges facing the pharmaceutical sector in Kano, and how is the PSN Chapter addressing these issues?
PSN Chairman: The pharmaceutical sector in Kano faces numerous challenges, primarily the proliferation of non-professionals in the profession and the lack of regulation in the patent medicine sector. To address these issues, we have collaborated with the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to close down unlicensed pharmacies in Sabon Gari Market, Niger Street, and other areas.
Ensuring Quality, Safety, and Efficacy of Medications
Interviewer: How does the PSN Kano State Chapter ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of medications available to the public?
PSN Chairman: Although ensuring quality, safety, and efficacy is not our core mandate, we collaborate with regulatory bodies to address cases of non-compliance. We also work to promote awareness about the dangers of counterfeit and substandard medications.
Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals
Interviewer: How does the Kano PSN Chapter collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure patients receive optimal care?
PSN Chairman: We work closely with the Ministry of Health in Kano to advocate for good policy governance. We also collaborate with colleagues in the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), doctors, nurses, and other healthcare personnel to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
Combating Counterfeit and Substandard Drugs
Interviewer: What strategies is the PSN Kano State Chapter implementing to combat counterfeit and substandard drugs?
PSN Chairman: We are establishing a regulated market in Dan Gwauro, where we ensure that only safe and efficacious medications are sold. We are also exploring the use of blockchain technology to track medications from manufacturers to users.
Public Health Initiatives
Interviewer: What public health initiatives is the PSN Kano State Chapter undertaking to promote health and well-being in Kano?
PSN Chairman: We are collaborating with the Society for Health (SFH) to equip our members in community pharmacies with the necessary skills to provide family planning services, track malaria treatment, and improve outcomes for pregnant women.
Engaging with the Community
Interviewer: How does the PSN Kano State Chapter engage with the community to ensure their healthcare needs are being met?
PSN Chairman: We urge our community pharmacies to establish clinics and provide point-of-care testing, such as nebulizer machines for asthma patients. This brings healthcare services closer to the community.
Future Trends and Challenges
Interviewer: What future trends and challenges do you foresee for the pharmaceutical sector in Kano, and how will the PSN Chapter address them?
PSN Chairman: We anticipate challenges such as brain drain and the need for more pharmacists in the state. We are working to create opportunities for young pharmacists and promote excellence in pharmaceutical practice and research.
Ensuring Professional Development
Interviewer: How does the PSN Kano State Chapter ensure the professional development of its members?
PSN Chairman: We provide ongoing education and training for our members. We have recently conducted career guidance sessions for young pharmacists and plan to continue doing so.
Vision for the Future
Interviewer: What is your vision for the future of the PSN Kano State Chapter?
PSN Chairman: My vision is to make the PSN Kano State Chapter a model for excellence in pharmaceutical practice and research. We will achieve this by promoting ongoing education, collaboration with other healthcare professionals, and community engagement.
Advice for Young Pharmacists
Interviewer: What advice would you give to young pharmacists who aspire to leadership positions in the future?
PSN Chairman: I would advise them to be passionate about the profession, work hard, and be resilient. They should also strive to acquire advanced degrees and fellowships to stay ahead in their careers.
Conclusion
Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights and vision with us today.
PSN Chairman: Thank you for having me. It has been a pleasure.
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