Leaders in the pharmaceutical industry converged in Lagos recently to discuss prevalent issues impacting Nigeria’s healthcare sector, and how the Federal Government can leverage engagement of the private sector to improve healthcare across the country.
They assembled at the second meeting of the Pharma West Africa Leaders Club held at the Radisson Hotel, Ikeja, recently .
A major highlight of the event was a presentation by Njide Ndili, the country director of PharmAccess and vice- president of the Healthcare Foundation of Nigeria. Ndili provided an in-depth overview of the newly established Federal Government policies designed to enhance the pharmaceutical industry.
These policies include the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking Healthcare Value Chains, the redesign of the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund, and the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative, among others.
Ndili emphasised the necessity for the Federal Government to actively engage with the private sector in the development and implementation of these policies to improve healthcare across the country. “Engagement with the private sector is crucial for effective policy implementation,” she stated.
Pharm. Ahmed I. Yakasai, chairman of the Pharma West Africa Leaders Club, addressed the audience, highlighting the critical juncture at which the pharmaceutical industry finds itself.
He noted the significant challenges, including regulatory hurdles and supply chain disruptions, but remained optimistic about overcoming these obstacles through collective action.
“We have the best minds and the most passionate advocates for change in this room,” Yakasai remarked, urging participants to focus on innovation, local manufacturing, and equal access to medicines.
He also stressed the importance of remembering the human impact of their work, calling for compassion and a genuine desire to improve the quality of life for all Nigerians.
Yakasai encouraged attendees to forge stronger bonds and commit to collaborative actions to drive meaningful change in the industry.
The event concluded with an invitation to the 2nd edition of the Pharma West Africa Conference and Exhibition, scheduled for 18-20 March, 2025, at Landmark Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
