Pharma group calls for unity to boost local drug production
The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria is urging stronger collaboration among industry stakeholders to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported medicines. At a recent press conference in Lagos, chairman Pharm Bankole Ezebulu highlighted the need for improved local manufacturing and workforce development. The group’s upcoming annual conference aims to equip participants with practical skills to address sector challenges. Pharm Charles Ajibo and other leaders emphasized the importance of supporting companies transitioning to domestic production.
Highlights
- Pharm Bankole Ezebulu stressed that building a stronger pharmaceutical workforce requires sustained capacity building and bridging knowledge gaps.
- The association’s annual conference will include training sessions focused on productivity, compliance, and regulatory preparedness.
- Pharm Charles Ajibo noted that Nigeria currently produces only about 30% of its pharmaceutical needs locally, with nearly 50 companies recently moving into domestic manufacturing.
- The association plans a free medical outreach, renovation of a health centre, and donation of medicines worth over N5m to the host community.
- Structural challenges such as limited infrastructure, financing, and skilled workforce continue to hinder the sector’s growth despite rising demand.
