The Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board, in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, has sealed six traditional Medicine facilities for failing to meet regulatory requirements. According to the board, the enforcement action was taken after multiple warnings were issued, urging the operators to comply with the Lagos State Health Sector Reform Law 2015. The Registrar of the board, Babatunde Adele, stated that the government would not tolerate practitioners operating without proper registration, especially given concerns over Quackery in the sector.
Adele emphasised that awareness campaigns had been conducted through various media platforms to educate traditional medicine practitioners on the importance of compliance. Despite repeated warnings, some operators continued to ignore regulatory requirements, prompting enforcement action. The rising cases of quackery in the traditional medicine sector make it imperative to enforce compliance, as unregulated practices pose significant risks to public health. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to sanitise the industry, ensuring that only qualified and registered practitioners operate within the state.
Government aims to restore confidence in alternative medicine.
Moreover, the state government intends to sustain this enforcement drive, closely monitoring compliance levels to deter future violations. Traditional medicine plays a vital role in Nigeria’s healthcare system, especially in communities with limited access to modern medical facilities. However, without proper regulation, unqualified practitioners could exploit the sector, putting Public Health at risk. By enforcing compliance, the government aims to eliminate quackery and restore confidence in alternative medicine. Strengthening oversight could also discourage illegal operations while encouraging adherence to professional guidelines.
Beyond enforcement, the government could explore other ways to support traditional medicine practitioners in meeting compliance standards. Many operators may struggle with registration costs or lack awareness of regulatory requirements. Providing access to training, subsidised registration, and structured guidelines could ease their transition into full compliance. Rather than relying solely on penalties, an approach that includes Education and capacity-building may lead to long-term improvements, fostering voluntary compliance rather than one driven by fear of sanctions.
A clear regulatory path could strengthen traditional medicine in Nigeria.
Furthermore, formalising the traditional medicine sector could create economic opportunities by attracting Investment and boosting local production of herbal remedies. With proper regulation, the industry could expand beyond small-scale practices, fostering enterprises that meet health and safety standards. This would generate employment, encourage research into indigenous medicine, and integrate traditional practices into mainstream healthcare. Standardising products and practices would protect patients while also enhancing consumer trust and giving traditional medicine wider recognition as a credible healthcare option.
However, the success of this initiative will depend on consistent enforcement and collaboration with key stakeholders. Engaging traditional medicine associations, researchers, and public health experts could ensure that reforms are practical and beneficial. A regulatory framework that considers practitioners’ concerns while maintaining strict safety standards would encourage compliance. While strong regulations are necessary, they should not stifle genuine practitioners. Providing a clear pathway for registration and certification could help separate qualified professionals from unqualified operators. Building trust between the government and practitioners will be key to achieving lasting improvements in the sector.
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As the government continues this regulatory push, the focus should be on balancing enforcement with support. Beyond issuing penalties for non-compliance, authorities should invest in education, research, and funding initiatives to help practitioners meet the required standards. A well-regulated traditional medicine industry could complement conventional healthcare, offering safe and culturally relevant treatments. If properly managed, the sector has the potential to contribute significantly to public health, job creation, and economic development, strengthening its role within Nigeria’s healthcare system.