Dr. Doris Uzoka Anite, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, has announced the government’s commitment to aiding the growth of domestic manufacturing in Nigeria, specifically in the production of medical essentials such as syringes and needles. During a meeting in Abuja, Anite addressed the Minister of State for Health, Tunji Alausa, along with the Medical Device Manufacturers Association of Nigeria. Anite emphasised the significance of this meeting, asserting that it will instil a sense of assurance among healthcare manufacturers nationwide.
A few months ago, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria and Sanofi, along with other health companies, made headlines when they decided to end their operations in Nigeria. The reason cited was the unfavourable business environment. Anite, in addressing the predicaments faced by health manufacturers, emphasised that the federal government is fully prepared to support the sector and enhance the production of medical equipment within the country. It is the president’s direct instruction for them to rectify all issues prevalent in Nigeria, with emphasis on those that directly impact manufacturers across various sectors of the economy.
FG is prepared to eliminate challenges facing the manufacturing sector.
During the most recent FEC meeting, the focus shifted towards the healthcare industry in order to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges it faces. Additionally, She emphasised that the president’s objective is to guarantee both reduced costs and increased availability of top-notch medicinal equipment for the public while maintaining affordability. Nigeria’s government is fully prepared to address and eliminate any challenges that may impede industrialisation, manufacturing, or the real (aggregate) sector. Recently, they have successfully resolved similar bottlenecks faced by the health instrument sector.
With the presidential endorsement to address the matter promptly at hand, she is confident that all matters raised during their discussions will receive swift attention and action. Amongst these are certain policy alterations that must be implemented. The issues at hand may not be of grave magnitude, yet through a thorough comprehension of their source, proficient troubleshooting, and formulation of appropriate strategies, a solution can be attained. By successfully resolving these dilemmas, the nation will thrive and flourish.
Expenses associated with pharmaceutical products should be reduced.
A comprehensive plan has been devised for a reverse integration initiative, encompassing regulations that impact both medical devices and the entire healthcare sector. The program is set to be introduced soon after receiving the necessary endorsement from the Federal Executive Council. The minister confidently states that this initiative will revolutionise the medical device industry and maximise its operational potential. Notably, a variety of appealing incentives will be provided to bolster the industry’s growth, according to the minister’s statements.
Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health, emphasised that Nigeria has been heavily reliant on imported needles and syringes, leaving their local manufacturing companies to face daunting challenges. In order to address this issue, the primary objective is to reduce the expenses associated with pharmaceutical products and medical supplies within the nation. The obstacles were thoroughly debated, and practical resolutions were explored for immediate successful outcomes. Moreover, they have pinpointed prompt fixes that will be included in the executive order assigned to them by the president. These proposed measures aim to address the problem on a medium-term basis.
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According to him, they have successfully tackled all the challenges that will lead to a sustainable industry. This will enable the creation of stable, lucrative employment opportunities for the people while also ensuring that they have access to top-notch syringes and needles that won’t pose any harm when they visit healthcare facilities for treatment. Moreover, Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Limited, HMA Medical Limited, and others were among the prominent health equipment manufacturers that were present at the meeting.
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