The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to end what it describes as the long-standing dominance of medical doctors in the country’s health and education sectors.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, the association accused the federal government of favouring physicians in appointments, promotions, and policy decisions while sidelining other professionals such as pharmacists and allied health workers. The ACPN condemned the trend as “institutionalised marginalisation,” claiming that it has led to a situation where other health professionals are systematically excluded from leadership positions in hospitals and universities.
The association also alleged that physician-led groups, such as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), and the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), have employed pressure tactics to influence government decisions in their favour.
Citing recent incidents at the University of Calabar and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, where protests and alleged interference in vice-chancellor appointments occurred, the ACPN stated that such actions violate the rules of the National Universities Commission (NUC), which stipulate that vice-chancellors must possess a PhD. “It leaves a sour taste in the mouth when the federal government bows to blackmail and overlooks merit-based processes,” the statement read.
The group also criticised the consistent appointment of physicians as Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) and CEOs of Federal Health Institutions, arguing that the policy has remained unchanged since 1985 and unfairly excludes other qualified health professionals. According to the ACPN, the phrase “medically qualified” in appointment guidelines has been misinterpreted to mean that only physicians are eligible, despite the contributions of other professionals to the healthcare system. The group also expressed its disappointment over the federal government’s handling of the MEDIPOOL Drug procurement initiative, saying pharmacists were not adequately consulted or involved.
“Mr President, we need your urgent intervention to correct these injustices. The government must resist this outdated structure where only physicians dominate leadership in sectors beyond clinical medicine,” the statement added.
The pharmacists’ body warned that the continued marginalisation is demoralising younger generations of non-physician professionals, many of whom feel discouraged by a system that treats them as second-class citizens in their professions. The ACPN called for equity, inclusiveness, and a more balanced approach to appointments in both the healthcare and education sectors.