The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has firmly stated that there is no Nigerian law preventing registered pharmacies from operating in-house laboratory units for approved medical tests. This clarification comes as a direct response to recent allegations from another health sector body.
Dispute Over Laboratory Services in Pharmacies
The ACPN was reacting to comments made by the President of the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Casmir Ifeanyi. Ifeanyi had alleged that some pharmacies were unlawfully conducting medical tests. The ACPN, led by its National Chairman, Ambrose Ezeh, described these remarks as misleading and warned they could harm professional relationships within the healthcare system.
In a statement issued on 17 January 2026, Ezeh provided the legal basis for the pharmacists' position. "There is no law in Nigeria that prohibits interested stakeholders from registering laboratory facilities as part of an in-house pharmacy, hospital facility, or as stand-alone medical laboratories," he asserted.
Legal Framework and FMOH Endorsement
Ezeh explained that the ACPN's stance is supported by existing laws, notably the National Health Act of 2014, which recognises pharmacies as legitimate health facilities in the country. He confirmed that several pharmacies have already integrated laboratory services legally, following all regulatory guidelines.
The association also strongly rejected the suggestion that pharmacies should not perform point-of-care testing. Ezeh highlighted that such practices are actively encouraged by the Federal Ministry of Health (FMOH). Specifically, the ministry promotes the use of rapid diagnostic test kits in pharmacies for conditions like malaria before antimalarial drugs are given to patients.
"The FMOH has directed that pharmacy facilities use rapid diagnostic tests to confirm malaria infections before Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies are dispensed, in line with the National Malaria Policy," Ezeh stated. He argued that this protocol safeguards patients from unnecessary medication and helps combat drug resistance. This is crucial in Nigeria, where malaria is responsible for over 65 percent of all clinical visits.
Broader Context and Call for Collaboration
This professional disagreement unfolds at a time of increased regulatory oversight of healthcare facilities nationwide. In recent months, authorities in states like Lagos have closed numerous illegal and substandard pharmacies and patent medicine stores to clean up the sector.
Analysts observe that Nigeria's health regulators face growing pressure to improve coordination among its various professional bodies. With rising healthcare costs and significant disease burdens, clearer definitions of roles and strict adherence to existing laws are seen as vital to reducing conflicts and enhancing service delivery.
The ACPN reaffirmed its commitment to lawful practice and cooperation with all health professionals. "We respect other professionals in the health sector and expect the same in return," Ezeh said. He emphasized that patient safety and public health remain the ultimate priority, and pharmacies will continue to work within legal boundaries to support national health goals.
