By Chikaodi Chukwuleta

Anambra State Government is working towards realizing self-sufficiency in drug production through collaboration with key stakeholders

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, disclosed this while speaking on the theme: “Access to Quality Medicines in An Unstable Environment,” at the 6th Public lecture of the Board Of Fellows of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (BOF-PSN) at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

 He announced that the state government is actively encouraging the development of the Ogboji drug factory, aiming to reduce dependency on imported drugs, which account for 70 percent of pharmaceutical products in the country.

“Nigeria’s dependence on imported drugs has long been a concern, as it contributes significantly to the high costs faced by the population. The country spends a considerable amount of its healthcare budget on importing pharmaceutical products, leading to inflated prices that make essential medications inaccessible to many citizens. Recognizing the urgency to address this issue, Anambra State has taken the initiative to invest in local drug manufacturing. The Ogboji drug factory, currently under development, is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting domestic drug production, thus driving down prices and creating jobs within the state.

“One of the primary advantages of local drug production is a reduction in costs. By manufacturing drugs within the country, we can eliminate importation expenses, customs duties, and other associated costs, resulting in more affordable prices for the population. Additionally, local production enables greater regulatory control over drug quality, ensuring that medicines meet appropriate standards”.

Dr. Obidike further stated that key partnerships are being established with pharmaceutical companies, industry experts, and academic institutions to provide the necessary support and expertise for the successful establishment and operation of the Ogboji drug factory.

“Alongside the goal of increased affordability and accessibility to medication, local drug production has the potential to foster economic growth and job creation. The development of the Ogboji drug factory is anticipated to provide employment opportunities to the local population, thus improving livelihoods and reducing unemployment rates.

“The Anambra State governor, Professor Charles Soludo, has made significant strides in the process of developing the Ogboji drug factory. The project is currently in the construction phase, with an emphasis on equipping the factory with state-of-the-art technology and ensuring compliance with international standards. Furthermore, continuous training and education programs will be implemented to enhance the skills of local workers and promote research and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector,” he said.