The escalating cost of pharmaceuticals in Nigeria has become a pressing issue, prompting widespread calls for intervention from the Federal Government. Residents across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have voiced their concerns over the continuous surge in drug prices, a trend that has made essential medications both unaffordable and inaccessible for the average Nigerian. This situation has been significantly exacerbated by the departure of key pharmaceutical giants such as GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria Plc and Sanofi in 2023, leaving a void in the market and driving up prices even further.
In the wake of these developments, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported from Abuja that the cost of common prescribed and over-the-counter medications has seen a steady increase. For instance, the price of Augmentin and Amoxil has tripled, while essential inhalers like Ventolin and Seretide have quadrupled, putting immense financial strain on families and individuals already struggling with the country’s economic challenges.
The public outcry is a reflection of the broader economic pressures facing Nigeria, where the cost of living has surged, affecting not only food prices but also healthcare. Stella Ekundayo, a businesswoman and mother of three, lamented the unbearable cost of malaria drugs and paracetamol, highlighting the dire need for government intervention to prevent further suffering among Nigerians. Amina Abdullahi, a school teacher, shared her personal struggle with the affordability of ulcer medication, underscoring the impact of drug price hikes on individuals with chronic conditions.
The issue extends beyond the immediate health implications, as some Nigerians, like vulcanizer Wasiu Ahmed, have resorted to herbal concoctions, known locally as “Agbo,” for treatment. This shift towards traditional medicine underscores the desperation of those unable to afford pharmaceuticals, despite potential health risks and the lack of regulatory approval.
According to a report by The Guardian, experts, including Pharmacist Jelili Kilani from the National Hospital Abuja, attributed the rising costs to several factors, including the high cost of foreign exchange and the increased cost of production for locally manufactured drugs. The situation is further complicated by bureaucratic hurdles in drug supply and approval processes, emphasizing the need for a multifaceted approach to address the crisis.
As Nigeria grapples with this healthcare challenge, the call for government action has never been more urgent. The need to stabilize drug prices and ensure the accessibility of essential medications is critical to safeguarding the health and well-being of the Nigerian populace amidst ongoing economic and social challenges.
