The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to address rising medicine prices. Lawmakers warned that millions of Nigerians now struggle to afford essential life-saving drugs. The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Alex Ikwechegh from Abia State. He highlighted sharp price increases across essential medicines over the past two years.
According to reports some drugs rose by 300 to 500 percent recently. Inflation currency depreciation and import dependence largely drove the steep cost surge. However lawmakers said government interventions have not yet produced visible relief. They cited poor implementation weak regulation and foreign exchange instability as challenges. Nigeria also relies on imports for over seventy percent of pharmaceutical products.
This dependence exposes the nation to global shocks and unpredictable price hikes. The House pushed for full implementation of the 2024 pharmaceutical Executive Order. They also proposed a Pharmaceutical Industrialisation Fund to support local manufacturers.
Additionally they urged faster drug registration and stronger quality assurance systems. Public health experts warn that rising costs worsen treatment adherence nationwide. Civil groups also call for insurance expansion and targeted pharmaceutical support. Lawmakers insist urgent action is needed to protect Nigeria’s fragile healthcare system.
Ultimately stakeholders emphasize boosting local production to reduce dependency and stabilize drug prices. The House mandates committees to monitor implementation and report progress within four weeks. This intervention signals growing urgency to safeguard affordable healthcare for all Nigerians. Experts urge coordinated reforms across health trade and monetary sectors. They stress urgent action to prevent worsening public health inequality nationwide.
