Nigeria Deepens China Partnership To Boost Traditional Medicine Research
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Nigeria is stepping up efforts to transform its traditional medicine sector through international collaboration, with a new partnership expected to boost research, innovation and local pharmaceutical production.
The Federal Government has announced a strategic partnership with China to strengthen Nigeria’s traditional medicine research and phytomedicine development, sending a 25-member delegation to the Beijing Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Medicinal Materials for a two-week capacity-building programme.
The delegation, comprising scientists, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and traditional medicine specialists, will receive training in modern traditional medicine production, scientific research management, commercialisation strategies and diagnostic techniques.
Speaking ahead of the team’s departure on 29 June, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, urged participants to represent Nigeria with diligence, integrity and professionalism while acquiring knowledge that will strengthen the country’s healthcare sector.
Chairman of the Ministerial Committee on Phytomedicines Development and Commercialisation, Dr Obi Adigwe, described the initiative as a major step towards building indigenous capacity in phytomedicine research and local manufacturing.
He said the collaboration would accelerate innovation, improve access to affordable medicines and support Nigeria’s ambition to become a leading hub for phytomedicine research in Africa.
The Federal Government said the partnership is expected to facilitate technology transfer, strengthen research capacity, create jobs and advance Nigeria’s medicines security agenda through evidence-based traditional medicine development.
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