By Ella Michaels
The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) has proposed the establishment of a pharmaceutical industrial hub in Imo State, as a major outcome of its maiden business summit held recently in Owerri. The two-day summit brought together key stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector, including pharmacists, academics, policymakers, scientists, industry leaders, and students, to explore the opportunities and challenges facing Nigeria's pharmaceutical landscape.
*A Vision for Self-Sufficiency*
The summit's theme, "Harnessing Imo State's Potentials: Advancing Growth of the Pharmaceutical Industry," was emphasized by NAIP Imo State Chairman, Dr. Okechukwu B. Unogu, in his opening remarks. He highlighted the association's commitment to transforming the industry by strengthening supply chains, fighting counterfeit drugs, improving access to essential medicines, and promoting research and innovation. Dr. Unogu urged participants to actively contribute their expertise to drive progress, foster collaboration, and elevate the standards of pharmaceutical practice in Nigeria.
*The Proposed Pharmaceutical Industrial Hub*
Delivering the keynote address, Pharm. Ken Onuegbu advocated for the creation of a pharmaceutical industrial park in Imo State. He stressed that such a hub would reduce dependency on imported drugs, lower costs, and drive self-sufficiency in drug manufacturing. According to Onuegbu, the proposed "Pharma Park" would feature modern infrastructure, including roads, reliable power supply, water systems, and telecommunications, all built to global standards. He added that Imo's natural and logistical assets, such as the Orashi River, the international cargo airport, and gas plants, make the state well-positioned for this development.
*Government Support*
The Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, and Chairman of the occasion, Chief Barr. Rex Anunobi, affirmed the state government's readiness to support NAIP's vision. He assured investors of a safe and enabling environment for business. Anunobi's statement is a testament to the government's commitment to promoting economic growth and development in the state.
*A Call to Action*
In their goodwill messages, the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Dr. Norbert Ajiero, and the National Chairman of the PSN Board of Fellows, Pharm. Uchenna Apakama, urged NAIP to capitalize on the momentum to drive sustained growth. They emphasized the need for local drug production to account for 70% of Nigeria's pharmaceutical needs, reducing reliance on imports to 30%. Pharm. Apakama also raised concerns about substance abuse among youths, calling for increased education and advocacy. He encouraged more young people to join the pharmaceutical profession to secure its future.
*A Roadmap for Success*
The summit featured a road walk for public awareness, panel discussions, presentations from sponsors, including Evergreen Pharmaceutical Industries, Pharmatex Ltd, Access Bank, and Fidelity Bank, and an awards ceremony honoring outstanding contributors to the industry. The event was a resounding success, and the proposed pharmaceutical industrial hub is expected to have a significant impact on the state's economy and healthcare delivery. With the support of the government and private sector, NAIP's vision for a self-sufficient pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria can become a reality.
*The Future of Pharmaceutical Industry in Imo State*
The proposed pharmaceutical industrial hub in Imo State has the potential to transform the state's economy and improve healthcare delivery. With its strategic location, natural resources, and logistical advantages, Imo State is well-positioned to become a hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing in Nigeria. The NAIP's proposal is a significant step towards achieving this goal, and it is expected that the project will create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve access to essential medicines in the state. As the project progresses, it will be interesting to see how the government and private sector work together to support the initiative and drive growth in the pharmaceutical industry.
