Stakeholders in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector have urged the Federal Government to intensify support for local producers, emphasizing that improved infrastructure, access to financing, and favorable industrial policies are critical to positioning Nigeria as a leading pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in Africa.
The call was made during a press conference ahead of the 8th edition of the Nigerian Pharma Manufacturing Expo (NPME) 2026, scheduled for September 28 and 29 at the Harbour Point Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Industry leaders noted that Nigeria has the capacity to significantly reduce its reliance on imported medicines if the government creates a more enabling environment for local production.
Speaking at the briefing, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of May & Baker Nigeria Plc called on governments at all levels to urgently address key infrastructural challenges facing pharmaceutical manufacturers, particularly electricity supply and access to funding.
According to him, while manufacturers remain committed to local production, rising operational costs driven by infrastructural deficiencies continue to limit growth and expansion.
“The government is aware of our existence, but more needs to be done,” he said. “Greater support in terms of funding and policy backing is essential. If government can take on some of the challenges manufacturers face—especially power supply—it will significantly ease operational burdens.”
He identified energy as one of the most critical constraints to expansion in the sector.
“Some state governments have approached us with proposals to establish pharma parks, but the first question is always about power supply. In most cases, there is no clear plan. Without reliable electricity, building additional factories will only compound existing challenges,” he added.
The CEO further explained that maintaining existing pharmaceutical facilities already requires substantial annual expenditure, making expansion difficult without stronger government intervention in infrastructure development.
He noted that enhanced support for local manufacturing would not only strengthen indigenous companies but also attract multinational pharmaceutical firms to establish production facilities in Nigeria, rather than relying on imports.
“Our products remain more affordable than many imported alternatives. If local production is encouraged and cost pressures are reduced, the entire country stands to benefit,” he said.
He added that increased local production and export of Made-in-Nigeria pharmaceutical products would boost foreign exchange earnings, create employment opportunities, and enhance the nation’s healthcare system.
Also speaking at the event, the President of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) urged both local manufacturers and pharmaceutical importers to invest more in domestic production.
He encouraged industry players to view investment in local manufacturing not only as a business opportunity but also as a patriotic contribution to national development and healthcare sustainability.
“For those already producing locally, we urge them to deepen their investments—not solely for profit, but as committed citizens contributing to national growth,” he said.