Pharma group urges stronger ties to cut Nigeria’s medicine imports

The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) has issued a call for enhanced collaboration among industry stakeholders, regulators, and investors to bolster domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing and curb Nigeria's significant reliance on imported medicines. This initiative was articulated during a press conference in Lagos, coinciding with the announcement of their 29th Annual National Conference and Training.

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My administration remains firmly committed to building a stronger pharmaceutical workforce by bridging critical knowledge gaps through intentional and sustained capacity building. This is a four-day, training-focused conference designed not just to inform, but to equip.

Pharm Bankole Ezebulu, the chairman of NAIP, outlined the conference's theme: “Collaboration and Innovation: Building Local Solutions for the Future of the Nigerian Pharmaceutical Industry.” The event is set to convene government officials, regulators, investors, academics, and industry experts to tackle persistent weaknesses in the sector, including import dependence, inadequate manufacturing capacity, and underdeveloped research and development.

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We are privileged to host distinguished experts from across the pharmaceutical industry, drawn both locally and from the diaspora. They bring global perspectives and practical experience that will strengthen our collective capacity.

Ezebulu emphasized that the conference is designed to be action-oriented, featuring training sessions aimed at equipping participants with practical skills to enhance productivity and compliance within their companies. He noted that the association is committed to continuous professional development, with ongoing efforts to bridge knowledge gaps. Former chairman Pharm Charles Ajibo expressed cautious optimism that Nigeria, currently producing only about 30% of its pharmaceutical needs locally, could significantly increase this figure within five years through such collaborative efforts.

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Nigeria currently produces only about 30 per cent of its pharmaceutical needs locally, but expressed cautious optimism that the figure could climb significantly within five years.