Association of Patent Proprietary Medicine Dealers marks 5th anniversary, inducts new members

Bolaji Obabiyi (intern)

The Association of Patent and Proprietary Medicine Dealers (ASSOPPMED) on Tuesday celebrated its 5th anniversary, end-of-year party, and the investiture of new members, as well awardees in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital.

Penpushing reports that National President, Olori Oluwatoyin Oyedele in her speech at the colourful ceremony held at OSCOFED Hall, opposite Asero Garage, described the event tagged ‘ASSOPPMED Day’ as a celebration of growth, service, and collective commitment to safe medicine practice.

The President equally appreciated members across the country for their support since the association was formally registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) on June 24, 2020.

Penpushing further reports that, she highlighted the association’s achievements over the past five years, noting that it has become a household name within the Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs) sector across the South-West.

The association boss credited this growth to the cooperation of regulatory bodies including the Ministry of Health, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Police, and the media.

Penpushing also reports that Oyedele disclosed that the association has donated 22 fully equipped first-aid boxes to police divisions, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), State Command, and correctional centres in Abeokuta.

The National President added that these boxes, are periodically restocked by the association as part of its public service contributions, just as she announced the induction of 60 new members, which she described as second to none in strengthening professionalism among the Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs)

Penpushing reports that, she listed the group’s activities, including participation in Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), orientation and Continuing Education Programmes (CEP), involvement in National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA’s) “Say No to Drug Abuse” campaign, HIV/AIDS awareness workshops, quarterly member orientation, radio sensitisation on best practices, production of anti-drug-abuse flyers, and the distribution of OTC drugs to members on flexible repayment terms.

The Director of Pharmaceutical Services at the Ogun State Ministry of Health, Pharm Olarinde Olalekan urged Patent and Proprietary Medicine Vendors (PPMVs) in goodwill message to be disciplined and comply strictly with drug regulations.

The Director warned against the sale of restricted medicines such as tramadol and codeine syrup, stressing that punishment awaits anyone involved in drug abuse or illegal dispensing.

Penpushing further reports that Father of the Day, Chief Joju Fadairo, who is Fiwagboye of Egbaland in his remarks condemned the activities of quack drug sellers who operate without professional guidance.

The Asiwaju of Ifoland, however, called for stronger enlightenment and enforcement to ensure only registered practitioners dispense medicines, stressing that if an association like this exists, there is no reason why quackery should thrive.

Penpushing also reports that Chief Superintendent of Police attached with Adatan Divisional Police headquarters Bankole Solomon spoke on the dangers of drug abuse and the need for vigilance among medicine vendors, urging them to support ongoing efforts to curb the circulation of hard drugs.

The ceremony which attracted membership across the South-West of the country equally recorded high points which was the presentation of a Matron Recognition Certificate to Mrs. Ajoke Odunusi, alongside the honouring of several other distinguished individuals.

Penpushing reports that the president thanked the association’s patrons, matrons, legal adviser, sponsors, regulators, and sister associations for their support, as well as heartfelt appreciation to her husband, Omooba (Rotn.) Oyedele Malumba, for his encouragement and contributions to her leadership journey.

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