The Honourable Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, has called for an end to the importation of medical syringes into Nigeria in a move aimed at strengthening the nation’s economy and promoting local production.
This was disclosed in a statement as seen on his X handle.
Alausa, who visited the factory with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Mrs Doris Uzo-Anite; the Director-General, of NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, the United Nations Deputy Secretary General, Amina Mohammed; among others reaffirmed the determination of the Federal Government to provide the necessary support to the local manufacturing sector to enhance its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product.
The minister noted that the restructuring of syringe and needle production aims to ensure that Nigerian products are available on the market with good quality as well as to create employment opportunities for Nigerians.
In the statement, the Minister said, “While we work on executive-level policies that will help uplift the sector, one immediate solution we identified during our discussions was to encourage all Federal Tertiary hospitals to purchase from local manufacturers within the country.
“Afrimedical is among the local manufacturers, such as HMA Medical, capable of meeting Nigeria’s demand for 1.2 billion syringes.
“During our tour, we gained insights into their production capacity and processes, further underscoring the importance of support.
“Elevating local industrialization and fortifying the growth and resilience of such enterprises remain paramount for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.”
The Director-General, NAFDAC, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye reiterated the Agency’s resolve not to issue import licences for syringes, directing their attention toward locally produced products and working with them to improve production standards.
Prof. Adeyeye acknowledged the potential initial cost implications of locally manufactured syringes and pointed out that there would inevitably be a reduction in prices over time as production volumes increased.
According to Adeyeye, this measure is in line with the broader efforts to advance Nigeria’s economic interests, ensure quality control, and strengthen the nation’s capacity for its supply of essential health care.
Recall that, This move to ban syringe imports in Nigeria comes after the NAFDAC DG had issued a warning to customs agents on the influx of imported syringes despite high import duties aimed at protecting the local market.
She urged the Agents to prioritize the country’s interests over personal gains as clearing agents in the nation’s ports.
