Dr Tunji Alausa, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, has urged for a comprehensive ban on the importation of needles and syringes to stimulate local production and bolster the nation’s economy. Alausa made this appeal during his visit to the Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Limited Syringe factory in Ogun State, underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting indigenous manufacturing industries.
The visit, as reported by Sayo Akintola, the Resident Media Consultant of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), was attended by key dignitaries including Mrs Doris Uzo-Anite, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General of NAFDAC, and the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, among others.
Alausa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to provide essential backing to the local manufacturing sector to amplify its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Emphasizing the significance of restructuring syringe and needle production within Nigeria, he stressed the importance of ensuring the availability of high-quality products made by Nigerians, thereby fostering substantial employment opportunities.
The minister urged NAFDAC to enforce stringent measures to curb the unbridled importation of syringes, aiming to shield the local industry from unhealthy competition. “Don’t give them any more authorization to import,” Alausa asserted, advocating for the safeguarding of the local industry through a backward integration model aimed at bolstering domestic capacity.
In alignment with Alausa’s sentiments, Prof Mojisola Adeyeye underscored the necessity for a comprehensive approach by government agencies to address the influx of substandard medical devices into the country. She highlighted directives given to the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) to prioritize local manufacturers of syringes, thereby fostering employment opportunities and expanding the operations of Nigerian manufacturing companies.
Mofid Karameh, Chairman of Mikano International, the parent company of Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Limited, expressed the company’s dedication to revitalizing Nigeria as the premier hub for medical device production in Africa. Additionally, Mr Akin Oyediran, Managing Director of Afrimedical, reiterated the company’s commitment to producing high-quality syringes not only for Nigeria but also for neighboring countries, contributing to regional healthcare infrastructure and economic growth.
