Nigerian Government Prohibits Use Of Imported Syringes And Needles In Hospitals

Nigerian Government Prohibits Use Of Imported Syringes And Needles In Hospitals

The Federal Government has issued a prohibition on the use of foreign-made syringes and needles in federal tertiary hospitals. In a circular endorsed by the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, all Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) and Medical Directors (MDs) of Federal Tertiary Hospitals are directed to exclusively procure needles and syringes from NAFDAC-approved local manufacturers.

This directive, announced on Friday, aims to bolster local production and safeguard the nation’s manufacturing sector from external competition. NAFDAC has been instructed to halt the issuance of licenses for the importation of foreign-made needles and syringes.

Dr. Alausa emphasized the hurdles confronted by domestic pharmaceutical firms in producing these essential medical supplies. He underscored the closure of many local companies in recent years due to the proliferation of substandard foreign products flooding the market.

“We have received a directive from the President to address this issue promptly. We have collectively agreed to take immediate action to rectify this concerning situation,” Dr. Alausa stated.

Consequently, NAFDAC is tasked with discontinuing the issuance of licenses for the importation of foreign-manufactured needles and syringes. Furthermore, companies involved in such imports will be delisted moving forward.

For more information join our WhatsApp group by clicking the link here: WhatsApp Group Invite