In a major step towards healthcare reform, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the establishment of Medipool, a centralized drug procurement platform designed to lower the cost of essential medicines and improve access for Nigerians nationwide.
Announcing the development after the FEC meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, revealed that Medipool would aggregate pharmaceutical demand from primary healthcare centres and federal tertiary hospitals, enabling the government to leverage bulk purchasing power to negotiate better prices.
“In line with President Bola Tinubu’s directive for affordable healthcare solutions, the Council has approved the launch of Medipool,” Pate said. “It is a group purchasing organisation designed to drive down drug prices and ensure a steady supply of quality healthcare products across Nigeria.”
The initiative, structured as a public-private partnership and vetted by the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), is modelled after successful procurement systems in countries such as Kenya, South Africa, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia. It aims to support local pharmaceutical manufacturing, promote import substitution, and guarantee Nigerians access to safe, high-quality medicines at reduced costs.
Boost for Cardiac Care in North-West Nigeria
In another significant decision, FEC approved the procurement and installation of a cutting-edge cardiac catheterisation machine for Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH), Sokoto. The medical equipment, valued at N2.3 billion, is expected to transform cardiac care services in Sokoto State and the entire North-West region.
Professor Pate stated that the advanced diagnostic and treatment machine would enable specialists at UDUTH to manage complex cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and irregular heartbeats, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad for life-saving procedures.
“This is a major milestone for Sokoto and the North-West. It will enhance access to advanced cardiac care and significantly cut down on outbound medical tourism,” Pate added, reaffirming the government’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Both initiatives reflect the Tinubu administration’s broader strategy to deliver affordable healthcare, improve infrastructure, and provide world-class medical services within Nigeria.
