Korede Abdullah in Lagos
As the three-day World Health Expo ended in Lagos, healthcare leaders and industry stakeholders urged the Nigerian government to leverage the event’s momentum by investing in local manufacturing of medical equipment.
Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke and Regtech Africa CEO Cyril Okoroigwe stressed the potential of local production to enhance healthcare access.
“There is an urgent need for infrastructural development and a reliable power supply to attract foreign manufacturers and stimulate local production,” they stated.
With over 10,000 participants, the Expo spotlighted innovations such as telemedicine, AI-powered diagnostics, and digital health records, revealing Nigeria’s capacity to integrate technology into healthcare.
Industry figures like Andrew Alaefule of DCL Laboratory Products and Clare Omatseye of JNC International praised the Expo’s execution, citing increased foreign participation.
“There are more foreign participants and much greater publicity than we used to have. This is quite commendable,” they said.
International exhibitors from companies including Mindray, RMS India, and Guangzhou Mecan lauded Nigeria’s emerging role in global healthcare.
Despite the enthusiasm, participants highlighted ongoing challenges like insufficient infrastructure and workforce training.
The Expo concluded with a joint pledge from stakeholders to act on key takeaways and pursue long-term reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
