In a strategic effort to enhance access to affordable and quality healthcare, the Jigawa State Government has announced plans to set up a small-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing facility within the state. The initiative is aimed at reducing reliance on external drug suppliers and strengthening the state’s healthcare delivery system.
The proposed plant, according to government sources, will focus on the local production of essential medicines, particularly those commonly used in public health centres and hospitals across Jigawa. This move is expected to not only ensure steady availability of vital medications but also cut down costs associated with procurement and logistics from distant suppliers.
The decision is coming at a time when states across Nigeria are grappling with drug shortages and the rising cost of imported pharmaceutical products. Jigawa State officials believe the establishment of the manufacturing unit will position the state as a forward-thinking health hub capable of responding to medical needs promptly and sustainably.
Government representatives emphasised that the project will adhere strictly to regulatory standards, including guidelines from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), to ensure that the medicines produced meet acceptable quality and safety benchmarks.
While no specific timeline has been announced for the plant’s commissioning, preparatory work including feasibility studies, funding arrangements, and site identification are said to be underway.
Health experts and civil society stakeholders have commended the initiative, describing it as a proactive step that could transform the pharmaceutical landscape in the region, create employment opportunities, and improve overall public health outcomes.
