25-Member Nigerian Delegation Begins China Mission on Phytomedicine
Dr. Nafisat Makinde, Abuja
A 25-member Nigerian delegation has departed for China on a two-week knowledge exchange programme on phytomedicine and traditional medicine as part of a bilateral partnership aimed at strengthening research, innovation and local capacity in the health sector.
The development was contained in a statement issued by the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ado Bako. The ministry said the delegation will undergo training at the Beijing Research Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Medicinal Materials under the Nigeria-China strategic partnership on traditional medicine.
The delegation comprises scientists, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and traditional medicine specialists who will engage with leading Chinese experts in traditional medicine. According to the ministry, the programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity in phytomedicine research and support the development of safe, effective and evidence-based traditional medicines.
Ahead of the delegation’s departure, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, urged participants to serve as worthy ambassadors of Nigeria by demonstrating diligence, hard work and integrity throughout the two-week programme in Beijing.
Participants will receive training on international standards for traditional medicine development, scientific research management, commercialization strategies, diagnostic techniques and treatment approaches in dermatology, gynaecology, paediatrics, internal medicine and related fields.
The ministry said the programme follows the inauguration of the National Committee on Phytomedicines Development and Commercialization and forms part of the committee’s efforts to adopt international best practices in traditional medicine research, development and commercialization.
The Principal Investigator of the grant and Chairman of the Ministerial Committee, Dr. Obi Adigwe, said the collaboration represents an important milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen indigenous capacity in phytomedicine development and commercialization.
“Through this collaboration, Nigerian scientists will gain valuable knowledge and practical experience that can accelerate innovation, strengthen local manufacturing capabilities, and improve access to affordable medicines,” Adigwe said.
He said the collaboration supports the Federal Government’s vision of positioning Nigeria as a leading centre for phytomedicine research and development in Africa, anchored on the existing capacity of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development.
The ministry said the programme is expected to facilitate technology transfer, strengthen research and development, promote scientific collaboration and support the development of world-class traditional medicines. It added that the initiative is expected to contribute to Nigeria’s medicines security agenda, support local pharmaceutical sector development, create jobs and promote the long-term growth of the country’s healthcare sector.