The Edo State Government has announced plans to commence the local production of essential drugs by 2026 to overhaul its healthcare infrastructure and reduce dependence on foreign medical services.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to reposition the state as a hub for affordable and accessible healthcare in Nigeria’s South-South region.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, made the announcement during an inspection of the Central Medical Stores and the Edo Pharmaceutical Company in Benin City. The facility, which had been dormant and vandalized during the EndSARS protests in 2020, is now set for rehabilitation and full-scale operations.
“This facility will be put to good use through the production of essential drugs,” Okpebholo stated. “It will not only reduce the cost of medical care but also curb the growing trend of medical tourism.”
The governor emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC). This federal scheme is designed to attract investment, promote local manufacturing of medical products, and expand private-sector involvement in healthcare delivery.
“We are passionate about the welfare of our people,” Okpebholo added. “That is why we are assessing the facility to identify areas that require urgent intervention.”
During the inspection, the governor confirmed that the drugs currently stocked in the state’s medical stores were in excellent condition, with verified manufacturing and expiration dates. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to restoring the pharmaceutical company to full functionality.
Accompanying the governor, Commissioner for Health Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole highlighted the role of the newly established Edo Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency (DMA). The agency is tasked with ensuring equitable access to quality medicines and participating in a national pooled procurement system, which allows states to purchase drugs in bulk at significantly reduced prices.
“When states buy in bulk, the cost of drugs drops significantly, sometimes even below factory price,” Oshiomhole explained. “This means federal medical centres, private hospitals, and pharmacies will source their drugs from Edo, making it a win-win for everyone, especially the poor.”
The commissioner revealed that the 2026 health plan includes a partnership with the Federal Government to revive the local production of paracetamol, antimalarials, antibiotics, and other essential medications under the PVAC framework.
“We are ready to key into the presidential initiative to encourage local manufacturing,” he said. “This will form a key part of our 2026 annual health plan.”
With this ambitious initiative, Edo State is positioning itself to become a leader in domestic pharmaceutical production, offering a sustainable solution to healthcare challenges and reinforcing its commitment to public welfare and innovation.