The European Union (EU) Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS is partnering with the private sector to bolster Nigeria’s pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities.
Speaking on Saturday at a meeting in Lagos, stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies aimed at enhancing the country’s ability to produce vaccines, medicines, and other essential health products.
Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation, Massimo De Luca, underscores the significance of these collaborations. “Our goal is to form sustainable partnerships that increase access to quality, safe, effective, and affordable health products,” he states.
The EU is making substantial investments in key health areas, including €18 million for the MAV+ initiative, which focuses on skills development and job creation, alongside €4.2 million dedicated to supporting public health institutes.
De Luca outlines a comprehensive approach consisting of five essential work packages: skills development through education and training, research and development—including the integration of AI and nanotechnology—digitalisation of health systems, centralised procurement processes, and trade investments. “These initiatives will complement the Federal Government’s efforts through direct grants and technical assistance,” he explains.
The EU’s strategy aims to create a robust local manufacturing environment for pharmaceuticals. “We are collaborating with African partners to strengthen local pharmaceutical systems and tackle barriers in supply and demand,” De Luca adds.
Looking to the future, De Luca emphasises the importance of ongoing coordination with EU Member States and the private sector. “We will utilise innovative financing instruments like the Human Development Accelerator to enhance access to finance for healthcare businesses,” he concludes, reaffirming the EU’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape.
