By Omrigbe Esther Iyiowo
In a significant move to improve healthcare delivery in Nigeria, the Federal Government (FG) through the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria (HFN) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have partnered to expedite the clearance process for medical supplies.
This collaboration aims to create a special corridor for the swift importation of life-saving medical equipment and supplies, addressing long-standing delays that have hindered patient care.
Pamela Ajayi, President of HFN, announced this partnership during a dialogue with Bashir Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of Customs, in Lagos. The event brought together various healthcare stakeholders, including doctors, pharmacists, equipment manufacturers, therapists, radiologists, and nurses, all committed to enhancing Nigeria’s healthcare system.
She highlighted that the Comptroller-General promised to establish a special corridor initiated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aims to reduce the high cost of medical care caused by cargo delays and additional duties.
A technical working committee has been set up to streamline the clearance process, review classification codes for medical equipment (HS codes), and address other challenges. Additionally, a healthcare desk has been instituted to tackle acute problems as they arise.
Represented by Deputy Comptroller-General CK Niagwan, Bashir Adeniyi. He emphasized the importance of this partnership. The NCS will expedite the importation of essential medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare equipment, which are vital for the efficient operation of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
“Our shared goals will safeguard Nigerians by ensuring that only safe, high-quality medical products are brought into our country,” He noted. This collaboration aims to combat issues such as counterfeit drugs and enhance healthcare delivery efficiency.
Basheer Abdulkadir, Director of Technical Services at the Federal Ministry of Finance, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the healthcare sector. He noted that import duty waivers and concessions for medical equipment are in place to promote economic management and ensure the swift importation of necessary medical products while protecting locally produced items.
He said that, under certain protocols such as the Kyoto Convention and the ECOWAS common external tariff, life-saving appliances and pharmaceutical items are duty-free, aligning with Nigeria’s policy framework to enhance healthcare accessibility.