Posted on: Fri 09-12-2016

Experts in the health sector have stressed the need to set up a logistics management coordination unit (LMCU) at various states across the country to coordinate logistics  in the supply and distribution of drugs and other health commodities through regular facility visits, efficient collation /analysis of reports that would be a basic for evident based decision making and intervention

This was made known at a stakeholders forum in Benin, Edo State.

In her presentation, the Technical Lead from National Product Supply Chain Management Programme (NPSCMP) under Federal Ministry of Health, Pharm. Chinwe Okoroanyanwu, highlighted the benefits of setting up a state LMCU, to include improving report on supply chain activities, building capacity of the state facilities with the ability to generate distribution orders and coordinate movement of drugs and health products.

Pharm. Okoroanyanwu, pointed out that there was need for Edo State Government, Developmental Partners and relevant stakeholders to encourage the programme at the state level.

She emphasised that there should be a budget outline for LMCU in the health budget and the unit should have qualified staff, starting with the office of state Coordinator. She further urged the state government through State Ministry of Health to support the programme to ensure success.

She informed that the National Product Supply Chain Management Programme (NPSCMP) would provide the state with two consultants that could assist the LMCU with training on developing their individual operationalization work plan, the integrated supply chain curriculum, monitoring and supervision framework and other critical areas relevant to their work.

Earlier in his remark, the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Peter Ugbodaga, said that there was a need for proper coordination of LMCU activities to avoid wastages and duplication. He also called for more advocacy visit and media awareness for better understanding of the programme. 

 In his welcome address, the Director of Pharmaceutical Service, Edo State Ministry of Health, Pharm. Godwin Okonoju noted that LMCU which was inaugurated on 13th February, 2015 in the state, was facing challenges in terms of absence of budget line and lack of adequate manpower. 

---

---