Partnering with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the Nasarawa State Government is intensifying efforts to tackle the issue of fake drugs in both primary and tertiary medical facilities within the state.
Dr. Gaza Gwamna, the State Commissioner for Health, disclosed this collaboration during a recent inspection visit to the Nasarawa State Drugs and Supplies Management Agency (NASDSMA) in Lafia, the state capital.
The ongoing upgrade of facilities, including warehouses at NASDSMA, is geared towards ensuring the efficient management and distribution of drugs in compliance with global standards.
Impressed by the quality of work and materials utilized in the project, Gwamna hailed it as the best in the North-Central Geo-Political Zone.
Highlighting the significance of the agency in addressing drug availability and affordability challenges in public health facilities across the state, the commissioner praised UNICEF for its substantial support towards the project.
“UNICEF’s contribution of 85 percent to the total project cost is a testament to their dedication to enhancing healthcare in Nasarawa State. We are truly grateful for their assistance,” said Gwamna.
He added, “With this substantial investment in infrastructure and the agency’s direct procurement from manufacturers, we are putting an end to the circulation of substandard drugs and drug shortages in our healthcare institutions. Drug prices in public facilities are now more affordable and standardized throughout the state, controlled by the agency. We are also extending this initiative to private hospitals willing to engage with us.”
Expressing satisfaction with the contractor adhering to project specifications, Gwamna emphasized that delivering quality healthcare services remains a top priority for Governor Abdullahi Sule’s administration.
The commissioner reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to providing quality healthcare services to residents while ensuring continued efforts to effectively address health needs.
The battle against counterfeit drugs is a significant concern in Nigeria, with recent seizures reported nationwide. In March, the Nigeria Customs Service uncovered counterfeit pharmaceuticals valued at N1.7 billion, including Augmentin tablets and Amoxicillin capsules, in the Oyo/Osun Area Command.