Tinubu Administration Boosts Local Manufacturing with Ban on Foreign Syringes and Needles

The circular, addressed to all medical directors, emphasizes the need to support local industries, which have been severely impacted by the importation of foreign-manufactured needles and syringes.

In a move aimed at revitalizing the local pharmaceutical industry, the federal government has issued a directive mandating all federal tertiary hospitals to procure needles and syringes exclusively from NAFDAC-approved local manufacturers. This decision, announced by the Minister of State for Health, Tunji Alausa, seeks to promote domestic production and shield the country's manufacturing sector from the influx of foreign goods.

The circular, addressed to all medical directors, emphasizes the need to support local industries, which have been severely impacted by the importation of foreign-manufactured needles and syringes. Out of the nine local pharmaceutical companies producing these essential medical supplies eight years ago, six have since folded due to the dumping of substandard goods into the market.

To address this issue, the government has directed NAFDAC to stop issuing licenses for importing foreign-manufactured needles and syringes and to de-list companies involved in their importation. Instead, hospitals are instructed to procure from approved local manufacturers, including EL-Salmat Pharmaceuticals Company Ltd, HMA Medical Ltd., and Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Ltd.

This bold move is expected to boost the local economy, create jobs, and ensure the availability of high-quality medical supplies. By supporting local industries, the government aims to promote self-sufficiency and reduce the country's reliance on foreign imports.

Source: NAN

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