The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), has introduced four herbal products aimed at managing diabetes, sickle cell disease, upper respiratory tract infections, and reducing fast aging.
During an official visit to NNMDA in Lagos, Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, unveiled these products as part of the government’s commitment to investing in natural medicine. Nnaji emphasized that these herbal remedies would serve as alternatives to foreign drugs, addressing the country’s escalating drug costs.
Expressing enthusiasm, Nnaji highlighted the significance of the newly launched products, stressing their potential as substitutes for imported medications. He also revealed the government’s plans to establish an innovation fund for research and development, emphasizing the pivotal role of research in national development.
In agreement, NNMDA’s Director-General, Prof. Martins Emeje, urged Nigerians to embrace locally-produced medicines, emphasizing the nation’s capacity to develop herbal remedies for various ailments. Emeje underscored the importance of valuing research and local drug manufacturing, citing Nigeria’s rich biodiversity as a significant asset in the herbal medicine industry.
Looking ahead, Emeje projected that by October 2024, NNMDA would unveil 11 additional products, potentially creating over two million jobs. He called on the private sector to invest in research and development, highlighting the exponential growth expected in the herbal industry by 2050.