The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has announced that the new executive order signed by President Ahmed Bola Tinubu aims to revolutionize the country’s healthcare sector by enhancing local production and promoting domestic investments in healthcare products.
Health and Social Welfare Minister, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, highlighted that the executive order will ease import barriers for raw materials and equipment necessary for pharmaceuticals and medical devices. This policy shift is expected to empower Nigerians to manufacture essential items locally, including syringes, needles, generic pharmaceuticals, test kits, and long-lasting insecticide-treated nets for malaria.
NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, stated that the executive order includes zero tariffs and excise duties for specified pharmaceutical machinery, equipment, goods, and accessories.
In a statement released yesterday, Prof. Adeyeye explained that the order is designed to lower the prohibitive costs of medicines and other pharmaceutical products, making healthcare more affordable for Nigerians.
“Encouraging local manufacturing will create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and reduce dependence on imports, ensuring a reliable supply of essential healthcare products,” she said.
