Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector is set for significant growth, with plans to increase local drug production to 70%.
This target was announced by the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, at the 7th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers’ EXPO in Lagos, according to Nairametrics.
Speaking at the event, organized by the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) and GPE EXPO PVT. LTD., Adeyeye noted that local drug production has already exceeded 30% and is approaching 40%.
The initiative reflects Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing domestic manufacturing capabilities and reducing reliance on imported pharmaceuticals.
“Our goal is to increase local manufacturing to 70% while limiting importation to 10%. This shift will secure a more resilient and self-sufficient pharmaceutical sector,” she said.
She emphasized that reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported medicines is critical for ensuring drug security, quality, and affordability for Nigerians.
Adeyeye stated that the Swiss Pharma Nigeria Ltd’s antimalarial drugs have been added to the World Health Organization’s list of pre-qualified medicines.
This achievement makes Swiss Pharma the first indigenous manufacturer in Nigeria, as well as in West and Central Africa, to have two of its products included on this prestigious list.
“NAFDAC’s technical support was instrumental in this success, facilitating WHO’s inspection and review processes. “This is a pivotal moment for our industry, we expect more local products to gain pre-qualification, reinforcing the strength of Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector,’’ Adeyeye said.
NAFDAC has uncovered a critical issue within Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector: over 50% of certificates for imported pharmaceutical products are counterfeit.
This widespread problem of fake certificates jeopardizes public health by allowing substandard and falsified medicines to enter the market.
The situation undermines efforts to ensure safe and affordable medication and poses a significant threat to achieving universal health coverage.
