Overview

The National Drug Policy (NDP) 3rd Edition 2021, published by the Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), is a comprehensive policy document that outlines the framework for ensuring access to high-quality, affordable medicines for the Nigerian populace. The foreword by Dr. Osagie Ehanire, Honourable Minister of Health, highlights that this edition comes sixteen years after the first revision in 2005. The review assessed the performance of the second edition, noting substantial progress in some areas but low performance in others due to economic changes, lack of proper performance indicators, and ambitious targets. The delay allowed alignment with key national documents such as the National Health Act (NHA) 2014, National Health Policy (NHP) 2016, National Strategic Health Development Plan II (NSHDP II) 2018-2022, and other relevant policies. The policy emphasizes the need for an implementation framework with SMART indicators, data collection, monitoring, evaluation, and dissemination plans. Key factors coordinated include Medicine Legislation and Regulation, Quality Assurance of Pharmaceuticals and Related Products, Financing, Procurement, Storage and Distribution, Local Production of Pharmaceuticals, Rational Drug Use, Medicine Selection, Human Resource Development, Research and Development, Traditional Medicines, and International Cooperation. The acknowledgement section thanks stakeholders such as Pharm. Olubukola Ajayi, Pharm. Mashood Oluku Lawal, Pharm. Linus Odoemene, Pharm. Beauty O. Okologo, Prof. John Ohaju Obodo, Pharm. Emily O. Olalere, Dr. Obi Adigwe, Dr. Otakho Dan Orumwense, Pharm. Thomas Omotayo Ilupeju, Pharm. (Dr.) Moyosore Adejumo, Hamzat Omotayo, Pharm. Abiola Bola, and staff of the Food & Drug Services, FMOH, along with the World Health Organization for technical and financial support.

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