During a webinar celebrating TheCable’s 10th anniversary, Frank Muonemeh, the executive secretary of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), emphasised the importance of Nigeria decreasing its reliance on foreign medications. Muonemeh stressed the need for the country to focus on domestically made drugs in order to address the rising costs of medicines. The executive secretary emphasised that it is crucial to consider the production of local medicines as a matter of national security.
Muonemeh stressed the crucial need to prioritise Medicine Security on par with National Security concerns to manufacture essential medicines domestically. He emphasised the interconnectedness of medical security, national security, and the attainment of universal healthcare coverage. Failure to address this issue may result in missed opportunities, particularly in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Failure to approach it using a different strategy will also result in them overlooking this chance. There is a chance for them to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported medications, and it is essential to note that the claim about locally made medicines being pricier is based on something other than evidence.
Importation dependence affects national security and the economy.
However, it is concerning that many of Nigeria’s borders are unguarded, creating apprehension among the nation’s citizens. Muonemeh explained that Nigeria will experience a surge in counterfeit products as a result of rising prices of goods. Despite this, he mentioned that local producers are making efforts to manage the increasing prices of medications. He added that discussions are ongoing with the government, specifically with Health Minister Ali Pate, to formulate a more effective plan for improvement.
Reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported drugs is not just a matter of national security but also a significant economic concern. By focusing on local production, the country can create job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and reduce the outflow of foreign exchange spent on importing medications. This shift towards self-sufficiency in pharmaceutical Manufacturing can also lead to Innovation and technological advancements in the healthcare sector, ultimately benefiting the overall economy. In addition to economic benefits, prioritising locally made medicines can improve the quality and safety of medications available to the Nigerian population.
Investment is needed to enhance local production of pharmaceuticals.
By promoting domestic production, the country can ensure that drugs meet stringent regulatory standards, reducing the risk of counterfeit or substandard products entering the market. This can enhance Public Health outcomes, increase trust in the healthcare system, and ultimately lead to better treatment options for patients nationwide. Investing in local pharmaceutical manufacturing can strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare Infrastructure and overall resilience in times of crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic has exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, making it clear that self-reliance on essential medications is crucial for public health emergencies.
Supporting local producers and ensuring a steady supply of domestically made drugs can make Nigeria better respond to future health crises and reduce its reliance on external sources for essential medical supplies. Reducing dependence on imported commodities is a strategic decision that can benefit Nigeria in multiple ways. It is a proactive approach that aligns with the country’s goals of achieving self-sufficiency, improving healthcare access, and strengthening national security. By working together to support and empower local pharmaceutical manufacturers, Nigeria can pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient healthcare system that meets the needs of its growing population.
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Moreover, this Investment has economic and health benefits and contributes to the nation’s development. By building a robust pharmaceutical industry, Nigeria can establish itself as a regional leader in healthcare innovation and production. This can attract foreign investments, create a competitive advantage, and bring prestige to the country as a pharmaceutical research and development hub. By fostering a Culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector, Nigeria can diversify its Economy and drive sustainable growth in the long term.