Nigeria Boosts Local Medicine Production and Affordability

The Nigerian government, in collaboration with partners, is intensifying efforts to provide affordable locally made medicines. During a high-level stakeholder meeting, new investment policies aimed at reforming the pharmaceutical industry were unveiled, focusing on expanding domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports.

Dr. Obi Adigw, representing the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships to enhance local manufacturing capacity and promote innovation.

The government has introduced fiscal incentives, including zero import duties and VAT on pharmaceutical products, benefiting 47 pharmaceutical companies that have collectively imported goods worth $26 billion. Abdul Mukhtar announced the establishment of a purchasing organization to negotiate lower prices and improve nationwide medicine distribution.

Additionally, the government is launching a training platform for 3,000 Nigerians in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The World Bank, led by Dr.

Onori Od, continues to support Nigeria's manufacturing agenda, with expectations for 11 pharmaceutical projects to commence this year.