Nigeria targets 70% local drug production at upcoming pharma expo

Nigeria is aiming to achieve 70 per cent local production of medicines to reduce its reliance on imported drugs. This goal is a central focus of the upcoming 8th Nigeria Pharma Manufacturers Expo (NPME 2026), scheduled for September 28 and 29, 2026, in Lagos.

High-ranking officials, including the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, are expected to attend the event. Organized by the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) in partnership with GPE Expo Pvt. Ltd., the expo aims to position Nigeria as a major pharmaceutical production hub in Africa.

The initiative aligns with the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), which focuses on technology transfer, local manufacturing, and strengthening domestic value chains. The expo is intended to attract foreign direct investment, facilitate technical partnerships, and help develop policy frameworks for pharmaceutical regulation and supply chains across the continent.