By Precious Mark
The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen local production of medical products, describing the newly launched Localization Project in Ogun State as a major step toward improving the country’s health security and reducing dependence on imported healthcare commodities.
In a statement issued on Saturday, WHO Nigeria said the project represents a significant investment in domestic manufacturing and is expected to boost access to essential health products, create jobs and strengthen the nation’s preparedness for future health emergencies.
According to the organisation, about 80% of diagnostic products used across Africa are still imported, highlighting the urgent need to expand local manufacturing capacity on the continent.
WHO said local production of diagnostics, medicines and other essential health technologies is not only an economic opportunity but also a public health necessity.
The organisation quoted Pavel Ursu, the WHO Representative in Nigeria, as saying that expanding domestic production would help ensure faster access to critical health products, build stronger supply chains and improve preparedness for future disease outbreaks and emergencies.
WHO noted that the new facility is expected to create skilled employment opportunities, support economic growth, improve access to essential health tools and contribute to Nigeria’s goal of eliminating HIV by 2030.
The organisation further stated that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s Healthcare Value Chain agenda and Africa’s broader objective of increasing the production of health commodities within the continent.
It added that the project demonstrates the impact of collaboration between government, development partners and the private sector in addressing healthcare challenges.
WHO also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting countries in building sustainable local manufacturing ecosystems through technical assistance, regulatory strengthening and coordination with development partners.
“On behalf of the United Nations in Nigeria, WHO commends the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), and all partners whose leadership made this milestone possible,” the statement said.
The agency added that it would continue to support local production initiatives across Africa as part of efforts to improve access to quality-assured health products and strengthen health systems.