NITDA Partners PSN to Create Drug Information Centre
By Alabidun Shuaib AbdulRahman
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has affirmed its commitment to collaborate with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) in establishing a Drug Information Centre, addressing the critical need for reliable information in building a resilient and efficient healthcare system in the country for improved service delivery to Nigerians.
During the World Pharmacists Day 2023 organized by the Abuja branch of the PSN at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, NITDA Director General, Kashifu Inuwa CCIE, serving as the chairman of the occasion, expressed this commitment.
He commended pharmacists for their crucial role in strengthening the healthcare system and acknowledged their sacrifices.
Inuwa, represented by Dr. Usman Gambo Abdullahi, the agency’s director of the Information Technology Infrastructure Solutions department, emphasized the significance of World Pharmacists Day in recognizing the contributions of pharmacists to healthcare systems.
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He lauded the launch of the Drug Information Centre by the PSN Abuja, describing it as a shared vision with NITDA that integrates emerging technologies to provide a valuable database for healthcare professionals and regulatory agencies.
Inuwa said the intelligent solution presented by the Drug Information Centre, addressing the critical need for reliable information in healthcare systems.
He aligned the initiative with the government’s National Digital Economy Policy and Strategy (NDEPS) 2020-2030, emphasizing the role of emerging technologies in new drug discoveries, optimizing healthcare workflows, and enhancing the transparency and security of pharmaceutical supply chains.
In support of the PSN’s vision, Inuwa expressed confidence that the initiative would contribute to the nation’s overall well-being.
He assured collaboration in improving patient care through telemedicine, better medication management, and remote drug monitoring, stating that cutting-edge technologies would elevate healthcare quality and strengthen the pharmaceutical sector.
Chairman of PSN Abuja, Pharm. Ifeanyi Ikebudu, in his welcome address, expressed optimism about the collaboration between PSN and NITDA, considering it a significant step toward realizing the Drug Information Centre.
He emphasized that the centre, when fully operational, would provide accurate and comprehensive data to healthcare professionals and consumers, positioning Nigeria as a pioneer in adopting and implementing such robust systems to achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goals in healthcare access for all.