FG BANS THE USE OF FOREIGN SYRINGES AND NEEDLES IN NIGERIAN HOSPITALS.

Babatunji Wusu –

The federal government has prohibited federal tertiary institutions from using foreign-made syringes and needles.

The government directed all Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) and Medical Directors (MDs) of Federal Tertiary Hospitals to only purchase needles and syringes from NAFDAC-approved local manufacturers.

This policy, described in a circular issued by the Minister of State for Health, Dr Tunji Alausa, on Friday, seeks to boost domestic production while also protecting the country’s manufacturing economy from foreign competition.

NAFDAC has also been asked to stop providing licenses for the import of foreign-made needles and syringes.

Dr. Alausa emphasized the difficulty that local pharmaceutical enterprises confront while producing essential medical supplies, stating that several have closed in recent years as a result of the influx of substandard imported items into the market.

“Mr President has commanded that this be stopped. We all agreed to take the required steps to swiftly address this unfortunate situation.

“As a result, NAFDAC has been directed to stop issuing licenses for the importation of foreign-manufactured needles and syringes.”

“It is also to de-list companies involved in the importation of these products going forward,” he went on to say.