By Aisha Abubakar 


 Introduction


Nigerian pharmacy has seen a remarkable transformation, moving from traditional herbal treatments to a highly esteemed profession based on patient-centered care and scientific rigor.  Nigeria's sociopolitical changes, worldwide developments in pharmaceutical sciences, and the unwavering efforts of trailblazing people who established the groundwork for contemporary pharmacy practice are all reflected in the evolution of pharmacy education and career pathways.  The history of pharmacy education and career growth in Nigeria is examined in this article, with special attention paid to significant turning points, and significant personalities that still influence the field today.


 Pre-Colonial Era: Indigenous Herbal Practices 


Nigerian healthcare was primarily provided by traditional medicine prior to the introduction of Western medicine.  The main keepers of medicinal knowledge were herbalists, diviners, and spiritual healers who used a wide range of plants and natural medicines to treat illnesses.  The study of pharmacognosy and the application of natural products in medicinal practices were made possible by this period, notwithstanding its informal nature. 


 Colonial Impact and the Origin of Official Pharmacy Education


 Nigeria experienced the introduction of Western medical techniques, including pharmacy, as a result of British colonization in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  During this time, only dispensers who had completed apprenticeships in colonial hospitals and dispensaries were allowed to practice pharmacy.  Since there were no indigenous institutions providing official training, the majority of pharmacists were either Nigerians or expats who had their training in the United Kingdom.


 Establishment of Pharmacy Education in Nigeria


 Yaba Higher College School of Pharmacy (1930) 


The founding of the School of Pharmacy at Yaba Higher College in Lagos in 1930 was the first noteworthy turning point in pharmacy education.  The school introduced structured pharmaceutical education in Nigeria by offering a Diploma in Pharmacy (Pharmaceutical Chemists and Druggists).


 University-Based Pharmacy Education (1960s)


1962: The University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife) established Nigeria's first university department of pharmacy.


1963: The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) launched its Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.


1965: The University of Ibadan (UI) initiated its Department of Pharmacy, later upgraded to a full faculty.


Due to these advancements, pharmacy education in Nigeria is now in line with worldwide standards, having moved from diploma-level study to the Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) degree.


 Expansion to Other Institutions (1980s–1990s)


Access to pharmacy study was further expanded in the 1980s and 1990s when pharmacy faculties were established at additional Nigerian universities, such as Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (ABU), University of Benin (UNIBEN), University of Lagos (UNILAG), and University of Jos (UNIJOS).


 Curriculum Evolution and the Pharm.D Program 


Drug formulation, compounding, and dispensing were the main topics of pharmacy education in Nigeria at first.  Clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical care, pharmacovigilance, and patient-centered practice have all been included to the curriculum throughout time.  In order to develop pharmacists with improved clinical abilities in accordance with international best practices, Nigerian institutions started implementing the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) curriculum in the 2010s.  This shift has been led by organizations such as UNN, UNIBEN and BUK.




 Pioneers and Prominent Contributors to Pharmacy in Nigeria


The evolution of pharmacy in Nigeria is a story of trailblazers whose passion and dedication shaped the profession into what it is today.


It all began with Mr. T.K.E. Phillips, the first indigenous Nigerian pharmacist, who graduated in 1921 and became a founding pillar of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in 1927, tirelessly advocating for pharmacists’ recognition. Breaking gender barriers, Dr. (Pharm) Lady Eme Essien Okon emerged as Nigeria’s first female pharmacist in the 1940s, paving the way for women in pharmacy education and practice.


Academia saw a monumental figure in Prof. M. A. Nwosu, Nigeria’s first Professor of Pharmacy, whose work in pharmacognosy and the establishment of pharmacy faculties left a lasting academic legacy. The fight against counterfeit drugs was spearheaded by Prof. Dora Akunyili, the iconic former Director-General of NAFDAC, who became a national hero for restoring trust in Nigeria’s drug regulatory system.


Leadership and policy reforms were championed by our very own Pharm. Ahmed I. Yakasai, a former PSN president who expanded the role of pharmacists in the healthcare landscape. In the academic and technological front, Prof. Bolaji A. Femi-Oyewo stood out for his contributions to pharmaceutical technology and curriculum development.


Other luminaries like Pharm. Sam Ohuabunwa, Prof. C.O. Okpako, and Prof. Cecilia Igwilo have also played instrumental roles in advancing pharmacy practice, research, and education, collectively forging a legacy of excellence in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical journey.


 Conclusion

Nigerian pharmacy has advanced significantly from its beginnings in traditional herbalism to its present position as a vibrant, scientifically oriented industry.  The development of pharmacy education and career paths is a testament to the perseverance of Nigerian pharmacists, the profession's adaptability, and the commitment of trailblazing individuals.  Nigerian pharmacists are in a position to advance pharmaceutical innovation and public health in ever-more-important ways as the country's healthcare system changes.





Writers Bio 

Aisha Abubakar is a 400-level pharmacy undergraduate at Bayero University Kano (BUK). Passionate about learning, writing, public speaking, and healthcare, she is driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact in the field of medicine. Aisha is working towards becoming a successful pharmacist and values activities that bring her fulfillment and purpose. She's currently a member of the editorial board of Bayero University Kano 2024/25 session.