In a bold move to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system and boost its industrial capacity, the Federal Government has announced plans to achieve 70% local production of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices by 2030. This major policy thrust was revealed by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, in a video address shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday.
The plan forms a central part of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), a transformative program launched in November 2023 under the leadership of the National Coordinator, Dr. Abdu Mukhtar. According to Pate, the initiative has already begun to attract substantial investment commitments from both local and international investors, signaling strong confidence in Nigeria’s evolving healthcare market.
Professor Pate explained that beyond pharmaceuticals and medical devices, the initiative is also focused on ensuring that a significant portion of vaccines consumed in the country will soon be manufactured locally. “Our goal is to reduce reliance on imported medical supplies, safeguard national health security, and build an industry that creates sustainable jobs for Nigerians,” he emphasized.
In addressing the broader economic impact, Pate disclosed plans to expand Nigeria’s life sciences manufacturing workforce. From the current figure of approximately 20,000 workers, the government envisions scaling up to tens of thousands over the next few years, thereby creating new opportunities for skilled employment and professional development in the health sector.
The Presidential Initiative is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s preparedness against future health emergencies, increase access to affordable medicines, and reposition the country as a leading hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing in Africa. With global supply chain vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, stakeholders have praised this move as timely and strategic.
Analysts note that achieving this ambitious target will require not just private investment but also significant regulatory reforms, public-private partnerships, infrastructure improvements, and sustained political commitment. Professor Pate expressed optimism that with the collaborative spirit already demonstrated by partners across the public and private sectors, Nigeria is firmly on track to meet its 2030 target.
“Unlocking our healthcare value chain is critical, not just for today’s needs but for securing the future of health for generations to come,” Pate stated.
As the initiative gathers momentum, Nigerians and the global health community alike will be watching closely, hopeful that the vision of a resilient, self-sufficient healthcare sector is within reach.