WHO Hails Nigeria’s Push for Local Medical Production as Ogun Project Boosts Health Security, Jobs

"Local manufacturing is not only an economic opportunity but also a public health necessity." Dr. Pavel Ursu, WHO Country Representative in Nigeria.

.... Says "approximately 80 per cent of diagnostics used across Africa are still imported, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity."

Nigeria has taken a significant step towards strengthening its healthcare system and reducing dependence on imported medical products with the launch of the groundbreaking Localization Project in Ogun State, a development the World Health Organization (WHO) says will enhance health security, create jobs and improve access to essential healthcare commodities.

The project is aimed at expanding local production of diagnostics, medicines and other critical health technologies, aligning with Nigeria’s broader Healthcare Value Chain agenda and Africa’s drive to increase the production of health commodities on the continent.

Speaking on the initiative, WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr Pavel Ursu, described local manufacturing as not only an economic opportunity but also a public health necessity. He noted that approximately 80 per cent of diagnostics used across Africa are still imported, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity.

According to him, increased local production will ensure faster access to life-saving health products, build more resilient supply chains and improve preparedness for future health emergencies. He added that the Ogun facility is expected to generate skilled employment opportunities, stimulate economic growth and expand access to essential health tools for Nigerians.

The WHO also believes the project will contribute significantly to Nigeria’s target of eliminating HIV by 2030 by ensuring the availability of critical diagnostic and treatment products.

Describing the initiative as a model of effective collaboration, the organization said the project demonstrates what can be achieved when government leadership, innovation and international partnerships are brought together to address healthcare challenges.

Across Africa, WHO said it continues to support local production initiatives through technical assistance, regulatory system strengthening, manufacturing capacity development and coordination among key stakeholders to improve access to quality-assured health products.

The organization reaffirmed its commitment to helping countries build sustainable local production ecosystems capable of delivering long-term health and economic benefits.

On behalf of the United Nations, WHO commended the Federal Government of Nigeria, PVAC and other partners whose contributions and leadership made the Ogun State Localization Project a reality, describing the development as a major milestone in Nigeria’s journey towards healthcare self-sufficiency and resilience.