Plateau State Begins Local Production of Pharmaceutical Products to Improve Healthcare

The Plateau State Drugs and Medical Commodities Management Agency (PS-DMCMA) has launched the local production of pharmaceutical products to tackle drug accessibility and affordability issues in the state. This initiative marks a significant step towards self-reliance in healthcare, according to the agency’s Executive Secretary, Kim Bot.

During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Jos, Bot, who is a pharmacist, announced that the agency has already produced five different pharmaceutical products. These include cough syrup, an antacid for oral use, methylated spirit, an antiseptic for external use, and surface sanitizers.

“The efficacy of the products has been tested, and superb results were achieved,” Bot said, highlighting the effectiveness of the locally manufactured medicines. This development is expected to provide residents with more accessible and affordable treatment options.

State-of-the-Art Pharmaceutical Warehouse

Beyond production, Bot detailed the agency’s commitment to maintaining high standards in the storage and distribution of medicines. He spoke about the pharmaceutical-grade warehouse recently established by the Plateau State government. The facility is equipped with advanced temperature control systems, modern inventory management technology, and strict security measures to ensure the safety and quality of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

“This warehouse serves as a vital link between pharmaceutical manufacturers and healthcare providers, ultimately benefiting countless patients who rely on these essential medicines,” Bot explained.

NAFDAC Registration and Certification

As the agency prepares to increase its production capacity, Bot emphasized the importance of securing registration and certification from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). This approval is crucial for the agency to expand its production and distribution within and beyond Plateau State.

The majority of the raw materials used in the production process have been sourced locally, with only one ingredient being imported. This strategy not only supports local industries but also reduces the cost of production, making the medicines more affordable for the people of Plateau State.

Governor’s Support Praised

Bot also expressed gratitude to Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his strong support and commitment to improving healthcare in the state. He acknowledged the governor’s efforts in ensuring that Plateau residents have access to the best possible healthcare services.

“The governor’s unwavering commitment has been instrumental in getting us to this point. His support is crucial as we continue to work towards making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the people of Plateau State,” Bot said.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the agency aims to further diversify its product range and enhance its capacity to meet the healthcare needs of the state. With NAFDAC’s approval, the PS-DMCMA hopes to become a key player in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, providing high-quality, locally-produced medicines that can compete with imported alternatives.

By taking this bold step towards local production, Plateau State is setting an example for other regions in Nigeria to follow. The initiative not only aims to address the immediate challenges of drug accessibility and affordability but also to build a more sustainable and self-reliant healthcare system for the future.

The local production of pharmaceutical products is a promising development that could significantly improve healthcare outcomes for residents, making essential medicines more readily available and affordable. As the agency moves forward, the people of Plateau State can look forward to better healthcare services and a stronger, more resilient health sector.