By Edward Samuel, Abuja
The National Chairman of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria, Pharm. (Sir) Bankole Ezebuilo, has reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing Nigeria’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.
Speaking at the 29th Annual National Conference and Training of the association, themed “Collaboration and Innovation to Build Local Solutions for the Future of Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical Industry,” Ezebuilo stressed the urgent need for Nigeria to reduce its heavy dependence on imported medicines.
According to him, over 70 per cent of drugs consumed in the country are sourced from abroad despite Nigeria’s capacity to develop a stronger local pharmaceutical industry.
He warned that continued reliance on imports threatens both national health security and economic growth.
Ezebuilo called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector and introduce policies that would encourage local production and industrial expansion.
Stressing that sustainable healthcare delivery can only be achieved through strategic partnerships involving government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, academic institutions, regulators, and development organisations.
He further explained that while some finished pharmaceutical products are manufactured locally, the majority of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) are still imported, leaving the country exposed during global crises and supply chain disruptions.
The NAIP chairman said strengthening local pharmaceutical production would improve access to medicines, generate employment opportunities, reduce pressure on foreign exchange, and position Nigeria as a key pharmaceutical manufacturing centre in Africa.
Urging investors to increase funding in pharmaceutical production and innovation, while encouraging universities and research institutions to focus on industry-driven research capable of addressing healthcare challenges.
The conference featured several humanitarian initiatives, including the renovation and commissioning of healthcare centres at the palace of the Emir of Ilorin in Ilorin.
In addition, a free medical outreach programme coordinated by the Kwara State Ministry of Health and led by Health Commissioner Dr. Amina L. Imam provided medical consultations, treatment, and free medications to more than 1,000 vulnerable residents in Ilorin and surrounding communities.
At the close of the conference, Ezebuilo reiterated that innovation, collaboration, skilled manpower development, and strong local manufacturing capacity remain essential to securing Nigeria’s healthcare future and reducing dependence on imported medicines.
 Bankole Ezebuilo, has reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu in advancing Nigeria’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.){kind=link}