Unlocking Potentials

In a transformative step towards a healthier future, UNICEF Nigeria organised a two-day Industry Consultation in Lagos, Nigeria, where local production was explored as a sustainable approach to procurements. At its core, this pioneering initiative aimed to promote sustainability, enhance economic resilience, and support local businesses. The aim was for UNICEF to invest in local manufacturing thereby fostering self-reliance, breaking the dependency on external procurements and aid and ensuring quicker response times during emergencies through shorter, more adaptable supply chains.

The two-day groundbreaking event marked a major leap in bolstering local manufacturing capabilities in Nigeria. It brought together key stakeholders, including local manufacturers of pharmaceuticals, nutrition commodities, immunization devices, and potential vaccine producers. The initiative aligns with UNICEF's global and regional strategies, focusing on localizing production, particularly in Africa, to improve response times and the resilience of UNICEF’s operations.

By decreasing reliance on international suppliers, supply chain costs are significantly reduced, and delivery lead times are shortened. This approach ensures that essential commodities are more affordable and readily available, especially crucial in emergency situations.

The platform provided a unique opportunity for collaboration, involving representatives from National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), WHO, local partners, and manufacturers. Discussions spanned various themes, including the process for local manufacturers to become UNICEF suppliers, prioritizing essential commodities, navigating regulatory requirements and quality assurance, and the opportunities and challenges in local manufacturing.

Prof. Moji Christianah Adeyeye, Director General of NAFDAC, emphasized the critical role of quality in medicines, medical devices, and vaccines in the access of such products to the public and universal health coverage. “The partnership of Nigerian manufacturers with UNICEF in terms of national and international procurement of essential medical products is seen as a game-changer that will not only enhance public health but also contribute to employment and GDP growth through local manufacturing,” she said.

Nemat Hajeebhoy, Chief of Nutrition, UNICEF Nigeria, emphasized the critical need to boost local manufacturing for nutrition commodities. Nigeria currently faces significant challenges, ranking high in the prevalence of malnourished children globally. The goal is to transition from importing to locally manufacturing life-saving commodities, contributing to child health and economic growth.

On his part, Eduardo Celades Blanco, Chief of Health, UNICEF Nigeria, highlighted the need for transformative initiatives to shift from importing drugs and medicines to supporting local industries. This shift aims to improve response times during emergencies, ensuring timely deployment of life-saving commodities in various situations.

Hani El-Jadaa, Chief of Supply and Logistics at UNICEF Nigeria, elaborated on the importance of the Industry Consultation, aligning with UNICEF's global strategy on local manufacturing. He emphasized the focus on technical and financial assistance, highlighting the participation of organizations like WHO, USAID/USP, FCDO, and IFC on day two. These organizations presented their programmes to support local manufacturing, offering a platform for industry stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges. "This day was really focused on supporting capacity building and giving the floor to the industry," said Hani El-Jadaa, underscoring the commitment to empower local manufacturers.

Francisco Blanco, Chief of Medicine and Nutrition Centre in UNICEF’s Supply Division, emphasized that collaboration with the Nigerian government is a pivotal step in advancing the local industry to align with UNICEF's goals and the broader development of the sector in the country. "Our vision is to see Nigeria not only meet its national needs but also become an international supplier of pharmaceuticals and specialized nutrition supplies," said Francisco Blanco.

Local production serves as a catalyst for economic growth at the grassroots level. Supporting local industries stimulates economic activities in surrounding communities, creating a ripple effect of prosperity. This translates into increased employment opportunities and contributes to raising the overall quality of products and practices, promoting environmentally sustainable methods.

In conclusion, UNICEF's focus on supporting local production is strategically aligned with its global objectives. The UNICEF Industry Consultation in Nigeria signifies a crucial step towards strengthening local manufacturing, creating a lasting impact on child health, economic development, and the overall well-being of Nigerian society. This initiative paves the way for a healthier, more resilient future for all.