The Healthcare Equipment and Allied Equipment Products Providers of Nigeria have appealed to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to reduce the expenses associated with acquiring Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificates for medical devices.
HEPAN commended President Bola Tinubu for endorsing an executive order aimed at boosting local production of medical and other healthcare products.
In June, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, unveiled that President Tinubu endorsed an executive order to promote the local production of healthcare items like pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, medical textiles, needles, syringes, and more.
Prof. Pate highlighted that this order plays a vital role in the success of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, approved by the President in October 2023.
He explained that the order introduces zero tariffs, excise duties, and Value Added Tax on specified machinery, equipment, and raw materials, with the goal of reducing production costs and enhancing the competitiveness of local manufacturers.
In a statement released on Friday, HEPAN emphasized that the executive order would aid in mitigating the escalating costs of medical services in the country, especially during a period marked by high inflation rates affecting Nigerians’ disposable incomes.
Dr. Ifeanyi Nwankwo, the National President of HEPAN, remarked, “President Tinubu’s action through this order will significantly cut down medical service expenses for ordinary Nigerians and lead to job creation for our unemployed youth.”
He also expressed gratitude to the Honorable Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Pate, for facilitating the decree’s approval.
Furthermore, Mustapha Falaki, the Board Chairman of HEPAN, commented, “This is a commendable policy that necessitates the support and cooperation of all industry stakeholders to ensure its effective implementation.”