FG reviews draft policy on local vaccine production

The Federal Government has reviewed the draft National Plan for Vaccine Research and Development, and manufacturing in the country.

This is geared towards fast-tracking local vaccine manufacturing and halting vaccine importation.

Speaking during the review and validation meeting, organised by the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), in Abuja, at the weekend, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said that the efforts of the Federal Government to commence local vaccines production over the years have begun to yield results.

Represented by Dr. David Atuwo, the Minister said that the review and validation meeting was timely, adding that it provided critical stakeholders and policy-makers the opportunity to address healthcare issues, as well as enhance entry of the pharmaceutical sector into the larger African market.

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He said review and validation of the Draft Roadmap, would also fast-track the achievement of the vaccine policy objectives of the federal government.

He said, “The Federal Ministry of Health and Social  Welfare will continue to provide the necessary oversight and work with NIPRD, partners and stakeholders at the various levels to ensure that the desired results of sustainable vaccine R&D and local production in Nigeria are achieved.”

The Director General of NIPRD, Dr. Obi Adigwe, said that the meeting was the first step to unlocking the health value chain plan which would not only save lives but also address critical socio-economic indices such as job creation, capacity building, revenue generation, and technology transfer.