Why Africa Must Take Charge of its Pharmaceutical Future – Anyakora

Professor Chimezie Anyakora, CEO of Bloom Public Health, has reiterated that Africa’s reliance on foreign aid and imported pharmaceuticals is unsustainable, urging Nigeria and other African countries to prioritise local drug manufacturing.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Pharmanews shortly after the recent 3rd Annual Conference of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN), held at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, Anyakora stressed that true medicine security cannot be built on foreign aid or imports.

The Bloom Public Health CEO, who has been a strong advocate for pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, highlighted the need for a well-structured pharmaceutical ecosystem that includes government backing, improved infrastructure, and stringent regulatory frameworks to support local manufacturers. He also addressed the impact of counterfeit drugs, the challenges of funding, and how the withdrawal of USAID support could push Nigeria towards greater independence in the healthcare sector. below is the full text of the interview:

What impact do you think the annual conference of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria has on the country’s health sector?

The annual conference is of great significance to Nigeria’s healthcare sector. It provides a vital platform for key stakeholders—including government officials, healthcare providers, manufacturers, policy experts, and advocates—to reassess, strategise, and plan for the future of healthcare in the country. These gatherings offer an invaluable opportunity to reflect on progress, identify challenges, and explore solutions for the continued improvement of Nigeria’s healthcare system. The conference, therefore, plays a crucial role in shaping policies and actions that will define the future of healthcare in the country.

Having worked in the sector for many years, I have witnessed substantial movement in healthcare. We must acknowledge the progress made and recognise the efforts of the government, healthcare professionals, and local manufacturers. The government has taken commendable steps to address healthcare challenges, but much more remains to be done to secure the future of Nigeria’s health sector. To me, the key to this future lies in local manufacturing. Nigeria must prioritise self-sufficiency in healthcare production, especially pharmaceuticals. This is a message that cannot be overstated.

One of my primary concerns is the need for an ecosystem-driven approach. While many initiatives have good intentions, they often operate in silos, resulting in fragmented efforts that waste energy. Nigeria’s healthcare sector must evolve into a more integrated system where all elements are interconnected and work in harmony. The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, for example, cannot thrive in isolation. Countries such as India and many European nations have demonstrated that pharmaceutical manufacturing succeeds when supported by a comprehensive ecosystem that includes government backing, infrastructure, supply chain logistics, regulatory frameworks, and a skilled workforce. Without these essential components, achieving meaningful progress in local drug manufacturing will remain a challenge.

For over three years, we have heard that 70 per cent of pharmaceuticals used in Nigeria are imported. Why has this trend persisted despite strong calls for local manufacturing?

The issue of local drug manufacturing in Nigeria has been a topic of discussion for many years, especially given that approximately 70 per cent of the pharmaceuticals used in the country are still imported. While some progress has been made, the pace of change remains frustratingly slow. The level of investment required to make local manufacturing a reality is substantial, and progress has been sluggish. The Nigerian government, alongside NAFDAC (National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control) and local manufacturers, must continue to close the gaps in the pharmaceutical sector.

However, achieving self-sufficiency in drug production requires not only investment but also a commitment to safeguarding these investments. Without a robust framework to protect them, it will be impossible to attract the scale of funding necessary to drive meaningful change.

Do you believe that the decision by the US to discontinue aid to Africa through USAID could ultimately benefit the continent?

The decision by the United States to discontinue aid to Africa through USAID presents both a challenge and an opportunity. I wrote a book two years ago that touched on this very issue, and my stance remains the same—relying on external aid cannot be the foundation for Nigeria’s long-term security and prosperity. We must take control of our own future.

It has always been disheartening to see Nigerian manufacturers excluded from participating in certain global tenders. However, this moment offers a chance for us to reassess our position in the global healthcare landscape. Nigeria must invest in its own infrastructure, innovation, and capacity-building efforts so that we can compete with European manufacturers and other international players.

NAFDAC is cracking down on distributors of counterfeit drugs, with many shops being shut down. Do you think some of these traders may be operating under the guise of promoting locally made medicines?

The distribution of counterfeit drugs has long been a significant issue in Nigeria. The role of NAFDAC in shutting down illegal operations is crucial, and the agency’s work in this area must be fully supported.

While it is possible that some traders may be disguising their activities as the sale of locally produced medicines, it is important to understand that no reputable manufacturer would deliberately compromise the quality of their products. A strong local pharmaceutical sector fosters peer review, accountability, and adherence to global standards, all of which can help curb the circulation of counterfeit drugs. Strengthening Nigeria’s regulatory framework will be key to ensuring that locally produced medicines are safe and meet international quality standards.

What impact has the Executive Order signed by the previous government had on the rising cost of medication?

The rising cost of medication in Nigeria is a major concern. While the Executive Order signed by the last administration is a step in the right direction, policies of this nature take time to yield tangible results. Implementation is still ongoing, and I believe that once fully in place, the order will have a positive impact on both the availability and affordability of essential medicines. The long-term effects will certainly be felt, helping to address Nigeria’s persistent healthcare cost issues.

Do you believe the current government is genuinely committed to improving healthcare provision?

I am confident that the current government is making sincere efforts to improve healthcare delivery. There are visible signs of progress, and I remain optimistic about the future. Initiatives such as improving NAFDAC’s operational capacity, engaging with the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria, and implementing policies like the Executive Order all indicate positive momentum.

While I do not have full insight into the financial support available to local manufacturers, there are promising indications that conditions are improving. Collaboration between the government, manufacturers, and healthcare organisations is key to sustaining this progress.

How can Nigeria address the ongoing brain drain in the healthcare sector?

One of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare sector is the persistent brain drain. Many skilled professionals are leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad. The solution to this problem is straightforward—the government must improve the quality of life for its citizens.

People want better living conditions for themselves and their families. If the government can address economic insecurity and create a more favourable environment, many Nigerians who have left will be willing to return and contribute to the country’s healthcare sector. While it may be impossible to stop professionals from seeking opportunities overseas, improving Nigeria’s economy and healthcare infrastructure will encourage more of them to stay.

Bloom Public Health has engaged in numerous partnerships. How strategic and beneficial have these collaborations been for the health sector in Nigeria and beyond?

Bloom Public Health has formed strategic partnerships that have significantly impacted healthcare in Nigeria and beyond. These collaborations are vital in driving meaningful change.

For instance, our recent visit to China highlighted the potential of using unmanned vehicles and drones to deliver healthcare services to remote areas in Africa. While the technology is costly, it presents an innovative solution to the issue of healthcare accessibility. Bloom is working on making these advancements more affordable and sustainable for Africa.

Another key focus is tackling the problem of substandard medicines. By implementing traceability systems, we can ensure that only high-quality medicines reach consumers.