Nigeria's Dr Iziaq Salako Targets 70% Local Pharma Production

At the 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo in Lagos, Dr Iziaq Salako, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, announced Nigeria's target of achieving 70% local pharmaceutical production by 2030. This initiative is part of the Presidential Initiative to Unlock Healthcare Value Chains (PVAC), which has secured commitments of $2 billion in financing at single-digit interest rates, with around 50 Nigerian health firms in advanced funding discussions.

The initiative focuses on increasing local production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, Rapid Diagnostic Tests, and other essential health commodities. Salako mentioned that the Presidential Executive Order on pharmaceutical and allied sectors has introduced zero tariffs on pharmaceutical machinery, benefiting 87 local manufacturers.

He also noted that two Nigerian products have attained World Health Organisation prequalification, marking a significant achievement in West and Central Africa. Salako called for increased investment in research and development, particularly in phytomedicine, and emphasized the need for stronger regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area.