The Hope and expectations that came with the federal Government ‘s order on import duty waivers for the Pharmaceutical sector Over two years ago seems to have died down as it has not translated to reduced cost of essential medicines for Nigerians.
Seventy percent of locally consumed medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients are still imported, and unless drastic action is taken,the situation will remain a threat to national security.
This was the take of some critical players in the nation ‘s health sector and traditional leaders across Nigeria at a forum in Lagos State.
That Promise by the federal Government over two years ago meant a lot for Nigerians , especially the ordinary man on the street who struggles to afford the high cost of essential medicines.
The persistent bottlenecks and volatility of foreign exchange rates has however not made this promise a practical reality
How to address this challenge brought together critical stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector and traditional rulers in Nigeria at the conference with a focus on reimagining Nigeria’s health security
Speakers were also unanimous on the need to harness the outcome of research
(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
