Nigeria Pushes Digital Model for Drug Supply

The Federal Government has launched a digital inventory model to tackle persistent shortages of essential medicines in hospitals across Nigeria.

Unveiled during a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, the plan introduces a consignment-based system to ensure drugs remain available and affordable in public facilities. According to officials, the strategy aligns with Nigeria’s wider push to modernise health supply chains.

Aiming to Save Lives

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, explained that the model is designed to close long-standing supply gaps. “Whatever we do, we should never forget that our job as Federal Ministry of Health & Social Welfare is to save lives. First and foremost, save lives. Reduce both physical and financial pain and produce health for all Nigerians,” she said.

Hospital Services Director, Dr Salaudeen Jimoh, added that the approach would cut costs and improve patient care. “Once we go into this partnership, definitely it will be better for all Nigerians. The goal is to strengthen service delivery, introduce a digitalised consignment model for essential medicines, and promote stakeholder collaboration,” he stated.

Questions on Transparency

The initiative has been welcomed, but concerns remain. Prof Eme Bassey, who chairs the Chief Medical Directors Committee, praised the effort but urged caution. “We must ask ourselves what happens to drugs urgently required when processes take days. Transparency is key, but we must also address realities on the ground,” he cautioned.

Officials insisted that with the right collaboration, the new digital model will not only prevent shortages but also improve affordability. They expressed confidence that the move would help Nigeria progress toward universal health coverage.