By Abubakar Yunusa
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has lauded President Bola Tinubu for signing an executive order to introduce zero tariffs, excise duties, and value-added tax (VAT) on imported pharmaceutical inputs.
Elanza News reported on Friday that Muhammad Ali Pate, the coordinating minister of health and social welfare, said the order is aimed at revitalizing the Nigerian health sector and increasing the production of healthcare products.
“In a transformative move to revitalize the Nigerian health sector, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR @officialABAT, has signed an Executive Order aiming to increase local production of healthcare products (pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, devices such as needles and syringes, biologicals, medical textiles, etc.),” Pate said.
In a statement signed by the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, and sent to Elanza News on Saturday, she said the executive order will reduce the high costs of medicine in Nigeria.
According to her, the EO is vital for the NHSRII’s success, addressing key issues in the health sector.
Adeyeye said by lowering tariffs and providing special waivers, the EO aims to reduce 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.
“Regulatory harmonization and market shaping will drive innovation and quality improvement in the local healthcare industry.
“It will also strengthen the health system by addressing underinvestment and regulatory challenges. The EO will strengthen Nigeria’s health system, improving service delivery and health outcomes, and enhancing resilience to future health crises.”
Speaking further, she noted that the President’s EO underscores his administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s health sector.
“It aligns with the broader objectives of the NHSRII and the Presidential Initiative on Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), approved in October 2023. By addressing core challenges and providing a clear path for improvement, this EO sets the stage for a sustainable and high-quality healthcare system for all Nigerians.”
