The Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP) said at the weekend that 80 per cent of drugs used in the country are imported.

 

It said the federal government should create enabling environment for people to invest in the value chains of drug manufacturing in Nigeria.

 

Speaking at a pre-conference briefing in Lagos, Chairman of NAIP 17th annual conference planning committee, John Adekoje, said there are vast opportunities in the sector that can create millions of jobs if the needed incentives and infrastructure are put in place.

 

He said the country did not need to import any drug as raw materials for all types of drugs abound in Nigeria. He called for massive investment in the sector.

 

Executive Secretary of NAIP, Adebayo Temenu, on his part, said local pharmacists have the potentials to develop a drug for the Ebola virus, urging government to encourage research with prompt release of necessary grants.