The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has approved the establishment of Medipool, a centralised drug procurement platform aimed at reducing the cost of pharmaceuticals.
Additionally, the FEC approved the purchase of a state-of-the-art cardiac catheterisation machine for Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital (UDUTH) in Sokoto.
At a briefing with State House correspondents, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, explained that Medipool is designed to consolidate demand from basic healthcare facilities and federal tertiary hospitals. This will enable the government to buy in bulk and leverage its purchasing power to drive down prices.
“In line with the President’s directive to ensure Nigerians have access to more affordable drugs and essential medicines, the Council has approved the creation of Medipool. This group purchasing organisation will use the federal government’s buying power to negotiate competitive prices and distribute high-quality healthcare products across the country,” the minister stated.
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Professor Pate highlighted that the model is based on successful examples in countries like Kenya, South Africa, Singapore, and Saudi Arabia. He emphasised that the administration’s goal is to support local manufacturing, encourage import substitution, and ensure Nigerians have access to affordable, quality medicines.
Regarding the purchase of the cardiac catheterisation machine for UDUTH, which will cost 2.3 billion Naira, the minister explained that this advanced equipment will enable the hospital to diagnose and treat complex heart and vascular conditions, including heart attacks and arrhythmias.
“This is a significant advancement for Sokoto State and the entire North-West, as it will not only improve access to life-saving cardiac care but also reduce the need for medical tourism abroad,” Professor Pate remarked.
He further reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transforming Nigeria’s healthcare system by enabling Nigerians to access advanced cardiac treatment locally.
