The Nigerian Government is set to place a ban on the importation of medical syringes in a bid to boost the manufacturers of the product in the country.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) announced this in a statement on its X handle on Sunday.
NAFDAC said the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa advocated for a complete halt on the importation of medical syringes into Nigeria.
It added that Dr. Alausa pointed out that this step would help to strengthen Nigeria’s economy and foster local production.
This call was echoed by the Director General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye during a visit to the Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Limited Syringe factory in Ogun State.
“The visit aimed to address the challenge of substandard medical device imports and promote indigenous manufacturing,” stated NAFDAC.
“Highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting local industries, Dr. Alausa emphasised the importance of restructuring syringe production in Nigeria to ensure the availability of high-quality products and create employment opportunities.”
According to the statement, Prof. Adeyeye affirmed the Agency’s decision to cease granting import authorisations for syringes.
She said such a step will also help to redirect focus towards local manufacturers, and collaborate with them to enhance production standards.
While acknowledging the initial cost implications of locally manufactured syringes, Adeyeye stressed that increased production volumes would drive down prices over time.
