FEC approves N4.5bn for locally made anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic medications

By Kunle Sanni

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved N4.5 billion for the procurement of antibiotics, anti-hypertensive, and anti-diabetic medications to enhance healthcare access across the country.

Minister of Health, Ali Pate, announced the approval on Wednesday while briefing reporters at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, following a FEC meeting presided over by President Bola Tinubu.

“Mr. President had previously indicated the need for a medical relief program to lower the cost of essential medical commodities, such as antibiotics, anti-hypertensive, and anti-diabetic medications, beyond test kits. These medications, worth N4.5 billion, will be procured and distributed to help reduce healthcare costs,” Pate said.

He emphasized that the medications would be sourced from local manufacturers in line with the government’s policy to boost local pharmaceutical production and ensure affordability.

“These commodities are produced by local manufacturers here in Nigeria, so we are beginning to aggregate demand and support our local industry. That was one of the key approvals granted by the FEC today,” he added.