The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in the establishment of a Drug Information Centre, in a significant development aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system.
This initiative aims to address the critical need for reliable and credible information, ultimately contributing to a resilient and efficient healthcare system and ensuring improved healthcare services for Nigerians.
The chairman of the occasion and the director-general of NITDA, Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi made this announcement during his opening remarks at the World Pharmacists Day 2023 event, organised by the Abuja branch of the PSN at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.
Expressing gratitude to pharmacists across Nigeria for their vital role in strengthening the healthcare system and ensuring access to quality healthcare, Abdullahi acknowledged the sacrifices made by pharmacists, emphasising that their contributions are invaluable.
He stated, “World Pharmacists Day holds significant importance in recognizing the invaluable contributions of pharmacists to our healthcare systems, and this day offers us an opportunity to celebrate their dedication and the impact they make on our lives”.
Abdullahi also highlighted the collaborative effort between NITDA and PSN in launching the Drug Information Centre, emphasising the integration of emerging technologies into the centre. This integration will create a valuable database accessible to healthcare professionals, regulatory agencies, and healthcare consumers, providing a reliable source of information within the healthcare sector.
He further asserted that the establishment of the Drug Information Centre aligns with the goals of the National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030, aimed at transforming Nigeria into a digital nation.
Abdullahi noted that the incorporation of emerging technologies into the pharmaceutical sector will contribute to new drug discoveries, streamline healthcare workflows and enhance the transparency and security of pharmaceutical supply chains.
“With the power of these technologies, we can pave the way for a more efficient, secure and innovative pharmaceutical landscape,” he stated confidently.
In his closing remarks, Abdullahi expressed confidence that the initiative would significantly contribute to the nation’s well-being and reaffirmed NITDA’s commitment to collaborating in enhancing patient care through telemedicine, improved medication management and remote drug monitoring.
“The adoption of cutting-edge technologies will not only elevate the quality of healthcare but also strengthen the resilience of the pharmaceutical sector in the face of evolving challenges. Together, let us seize these opportunities and work towards a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria,” he concluded.
The chairman of the PSN Abuja, Pharm. Ifeanyi Ikebudu shared his optimism regarding the collaboration between PSN and NITDA in the realisation of the Drug Information Centre. He highlighted the centre’s role in providing accurate and comprehensive data to healthcare professionals and consumers once fully operational.
“This innovative stride in promoting ICT deployment in healthcare delivery will place Nigeria amongst the first to adopt and implement such a robust and novel system that will ultimately assist the government in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in providing basic access to healthcare for all,” he stated.
The establishment of the Drug Information Centre represents a significant step forward in bolstering Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, fostering innovation and ensuring better healthcare services for all citizens.
