Overview

The document is the 8th Edition (2024) of the Nigeria Essential Medicines List for Adults, published by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. It updates the 7th edition (2020) and serves as a guide for selecting the most efficacious, safe, and cost-effective medicines for priority conditions in Nigeria. The review was conducted by the National Drug Formulary/Essential Drug List (NDF/EDL) Review Committee, a statutory body established by Decree 43 of 1989 (now Act CAP 252 LFN 2004). The development followed WHO guidelines and incorporated input from expert therapeutic groups, stakeholders, and the 3rd edition of the Nigeria Standard Treatment Guidelines. The list includes medicines for emerging diseases, oncology, rheumatology, and other areas, and antibiotics are categorized according to the WHO AWaRe classification to combat antimicrobial resistance. The document emphasizes rational use, streamlined procurement, and distribution of quality-assured medicines. Healthcare providers are advised to limit prescriptions to the listed medicines, with provisions for exceptions when necessary. The foreword by Minister Professor Muhammad Ali Pate and the preface by the committee highlight the importance of the NEML in improving access to medicines and health outcomes in Nigeria.

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