ACPN Advocates Sector Reform, Lauds Industry Growth Ahead of 44th Annual Conference

Esther Oluku

The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has called for urgent policy reforms to reposition Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector for sustainable growth and enhanced national impact.

The association, in a statement, advocated for comprehensive reforms to strengthen the country’s drug distribution framework with key recommendations including; amending the Fake Drug Act to enforce stricter sanctions on offenders, and the full implementation of the National Drug Distribution Guidelines, established in 2015.

“We reiterate, albeit with a sense of responsibility, that the Federal Ministry of Health must engage stakeholders more effectively before introducing new policies, as seen with the MEDIPOOL initiative. A policy can be good or bad depending on how it is implemented,” the statement read.

“These shared values, when progressively implemented, will become the springboard for a wholesome and virile pharma sector.

The association also highlighted the remarkable progress made by local pharmaceutical manufacturers, despite prevailing economic challenges. It noted that over 150 manufacturers currently registered in Nigeria, five have attained the World Health Organization (WHO) certification for Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).

The statement cited key milestones such as the Fidson Healthcare’s pioneering role in producing antiretrovirals during a decline in donor support, Emzor’s recent commissioning of a specialised cephalosporin plant, the entry of Indian pharmaceutical giant Jawa Pharm with a new beta-lactam facility, and Codix Healthcare’s launch of a diagnostic kits factory as signs of a resilient and maturing industry.

Attributing these developments to a renewed wave of investor confidence, the association projected that the sector could grow from its current estimated value of $2 billion to $10 billion within the next five years.

The ACPN pledged continued collaboration with local pharmaceutical manufacturers to improve access to essential medicines and enhance the economic viability of the sector. It also urged the government to create targeted incentives to support indigenous players.

“Governments at all levels must support pharmaceutical manufacturers because local production presents opportunities for job creation, economic growth, and improved national security.”