Hussaini Kafi in Kano
Governor Dr. Dikko Radda of Katsina State has announced plans to establish a state-owned pharmaceutical manufacturing company, a pioneering venture in Northern Nigeria.
This ambitious project aims to enhance drug accessibility and affordability while reducing reliance on external suppliers and bolstering local drug production.
The governor made this announcement during the commissioning of a state-of-the-art Pharma-grade Warehouse and the launch of a free medicare and motorcycle program for tuberculosis and leprosy surveillance.
He highlighted that over N5 billion has been invested in improving healthcare infrastructure and services since his administration assumed office over a year ago.
To further strengthen healthcare access, Governor Radda revealed that N300 million has been allocated in the 2025 budget to expand the existing drug revolving fund scheme.
This initiative will ensure wider coverage of health facilities across the state.
Additionally, the state government has provided significant financial support to the Drugs and Medical Supply Agency, including N96 million for the drug revolving fund and N100 million to enhance operational efficiency.
The newly commissioned Pharma-grade Warehouse, a collaborative effort with UNICEF and the National Product Supply Management Chain Programme, features cold rooms for temperature-sensitive medications, a quality assurance laboratory, and a dedicated drug information center with a hotline for reporting counterfeit or substandard drugs.
The Executive Secretary of the State Drugs and Medical Supply Agency, Dr. Fatima Shuaibu, emphasized the importance of this facility in improving drug storage and distribution.
She requested the governor’s support in providing a more robust power supply solution, such as a larger generator or a solar-powered system, to ensure uninterrupted operation.
UNICEF commended the Katsina State government for its commitment to strengthening the healthcare system. Rahma Farah, Chief of the UNICEF Field Office in Kano, stated that the upgraded warehouse represents a significant step forward in improving healthcare delivery across Nigeria.
This initiative underscores the Katsina State government’s dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility, affordability, and quality for its citizens.
