Nigeria's Supply Chain and Logistics Sectors Criticized for Lagging Behind

 

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) and the African Centre for Supply Chain (ACSC) have raised concerns over Nigeria's inadequate attention to supply chain and logistics management. They emphasized that these sectors are crucial for improving access to essential goods, including quality medication.

Speaking at the public presentation of the Nigerian Logistics and Supply Chain 2023 report in Abuja, PCN Registrar and CEO, Pharm Ibrahim Babashehu Ahmed, highlighted the ongoing challenges in the logistics sector. The report covered issues from manufacturing to distribution, particularly patient access to medicine. Ahmed noted that the PCN, as the regulatory authority in the pharmaceutical industry, has been working to properly integrate itself within the supply chain to ensure better regulation for patient benefit.

He emphasized the importance of providing patients with access to affordable and high-quality medicines, adding that the current government is making efforts to improve the situation. “We are committed to ensuring the successful implementation of the national drug distribution guidelines, which aim to close chaotic open drug markets and streamline the distribution of medicines,” Ahmed stated. He warned that unregulated supply chains allow substandard medications to enter the market, making it difficult for people to access quality products.

Professor A.G. Sumaila, Chairman of the ACSC Governing Council, also underscored the vital role logistics play in daily life. He remarked, “Supply chain logistics is essential for survival. Without it, life as we know it cannot function. Many of the rising prices and disruptions in daily goods are due to logistical issues.”

Similarly, Dr. Obiora Madu, Director General of ACSC, pointed out that logistics is no longer a peripheral part of operations but is central to any functioning system. "Without an efficient supply chain, everything from agriculture to manufacturing grinds to a halt, as witnessed during the COVID-19 pandemic when only supply chains were functioning," he added.

Both organizations called for immediate attention to the supply chain and logistics sectors in Nigeria, stressing that improvements in these areas are vital for national progress and public health.