The Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) is urging that 70% [1] of Nigeria’s drug supply be produced locally.

This shift aims to secure the national health supply chain by reducing the country's heavy reliance on imported medicines. Strengthening the domestic pharmaceutical sector is seen as a critical step toward health sovereignty and economic stability.

The group said that increasing local manufacturing would mitigate the risks associated with global supply chain disruptions. By shifting production to Nigerian soil, the industry can better manage the availability of essential medications for the population.

However, the transition faces significant economic headwinds. PMG-MAN said that instability regarding the naira could threaten the viability of local production. Currency fluctuations often increase the cost of raw materials, which are frequently imported, creating a volatile environment for manufacturers.

To reach the target of 70% [1] local production, the group suggests a need for supportive policies that protect domestic industries from external shocks. This includes addressing the financial hurdles that prevent local firms from scaling their operations to meet national demand.

The push for localized production is part of a broader strategy to foster industrial growth within Nigeria. The group said that a robust pharmaceutical sector would not only provide cheaper drugs, but also create specialized employment opportunities across the country.

“PMG-MAN is urging that 70% of Nigeria’s drug supply be produced locally.”

This initiative represents a strategic attempt to decouple Nigeria's healthcare access from volatile foreign exchange markets. Because the pharmaceutical industry relies heavily on imported active pharmaceutical ingredients, the success of this 70% target depends on the government's ability to stabilize the naira and provide incentives for domestic raw material sourcing.