The Federal Government has been called upon to provide a clear policy direction and sustained support for research, manufacturing, and innovation to unlock the potential of Nigeria's natural products in the health sector. Professor of Clinical Chemistry and Toxicology, Augustine Anayochukwu Onyeaghala, made this call while delivering the fourth inaugural lecture at Chrisland University in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Government-Private Sector Approach Needed
Professor Onyeaghala stressed that Nigeria must adopt a government-private sector approach to improve healthcare delivery. He noted that the shortage of laboratory equipment is a major factor hindering research and development in the country. According to him, specialized facilities like ultra-low temperature storage systems for biomedical research are often unavailable, limiting the scope and quality of local research.
Call for Increased Budgetary Allocations
The professor urged the government to significantly increase budgetary allocations for research and development. He argued that greater investment in scientific infrastructure and funding mechanisms would enable researchers to generate evidence needed to support the development of natural products. He highlighted that taking a new natural product from discovery to clinical trials is expensive and delicate, and funding remains a major challenge.
He emphasized that adequate financial support is necessary for large-scale studies, clinical evidence establishment, quality control, and regulatory approval. He also stressed the importance of following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) throughout the entire production chain, including quality control, quality assurance, and compliance mechanisms to meet international standards.
Policy Support for Local Manufacturers
Professor Onyeaghala called on the government to formulate policies that support local manufacturers by creating an enabling environment that encourages investment in pharmaceutical production and discourages import dependence. He noted that a significant proportion of pharmaceuticals consumed in Nigeria are imported, putting pressure on foreign exchange reserves and exposing the healthcare sector to supply disruptions.
He reiterated the need for strategic investment in pharmaceutical infrastructure to reduce reliance on imported medicines. He pointed out that Nigerian researchers and professionals are already making valuable contributions in leading institutions across Europe, and their expertise can be leveraged to strengthen local capacity and accelerate technological advancement.
Potential for Leadership in Africa
The professor revealed that Nigeria has the potential to become a leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing and natural product development in Africa. Achieving this goal requires deliberate investments in research, innovation, technology transfer, and industrial development. He also emphasized the importance of developing local expertise, as sourcing expertise from outside contributes to capital flight.
He concluded by urging the Federal Government to provide clear policy direction and sustained support for research, manufacturing, and innovation. By investing in infrastructure, human capital, and regulatory systems, Nigeria can establish a globally competitive pharmaceutical industry that meets domestic needs and contributes to economic growth. He noted that political will is crucial, as substantial data already shows the effectiveness of indigenous plants like ginger, garlic, and turmeric in managing health conditions.
