Abuja – The Federal Government, in collaboration with key stakeholders in the health sector, on Monday inaugurated the National Electronic Pharmacy Policy and Strategic Implementation Plan to transform healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said the policy is designed to regulate the production and sale of pharmaceuticals and ensure Nigerians have access to quality-assured medicines.
Represented by the Director of Food and Drug Services, Olubumi Aribeana, Pate explained that the initiative aims to modernise healthcare delivery and make affordable medicine accessible to all citizens, regardless of location.
He noted that despite the growth of digital platforms across the economy, the pharmaceutical sector has remained fragmented, allowing substandard drugs, unlicensed vendors, and misinformation to thrive.
“Today marks a bold step forward in our mission to ensure every Nigerian has access to safe, affordable, and quality-assured medicines.”
“The NEPP provides a clear framework for regulating electronic pharmacy services, ensuring innovation does not compromise safety. It establishes licensing standards, enables real-time monitoring of pharmaceutical products, and improves access to essential medicines, particularly in underserved communities,” Pate said.
The Registrar and CEO of the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Ibrahim-Babashehu Ahmed, added that the policy provides strategic direction for PCN, the implementing agency, and has been approved by the Coordinating Minister of Health and endorsed by the Minister of Justice.
Munir Elelu, Director of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Foundation, described the policy as a positive innovation, noting its potential to enhance primary healthcare and family planning services across communities.
Similarly, David Adeyemi, CEO of Pharmachain Technologies and a member of the drafting team, praised the effort and assured that the policy would see proper implementation.
NAN
