The Federal Government says 87 pharmaceutical manufacturers are currently benefiting from policy incentives aimed at boosting local drug production and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Speaking at the commissioning of a new manufacturing facility by SAM Pharmaceuticals in Ogun State, Minister of State for Health, Adekunle Salako, said the sector is central to the country’s push for medicine security and economic growth.
He noted that reforms such as zero tariffs on machinery and raw materials are already driving increased local production, with more projects underway in areas like active pharmaceutical ingredients and diagnostics.
Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Mojisola Adeyeye, attributed the sector’s growth to consistent regulatory policies, including its “five plus five” framework and local manufacturing push.
According to her, Nigeria has also achieved the World Health Organization’s Maturity Level 3 rating, a milestone expected to boost global confidence in locally produced medicines.
Industry leaders say the reforms are already shifting the balance between imported and locally manufactured drugs, with the ratio now closer to parity.
The government has urged manufacturers to ensure that increased production translates into more affordable medicines for Nigerians.
