A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has expressed concern over the high cost of medication in Nigeria despite President Bola Tinubu's executive order aimed at reducing prices.
Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker and member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council, lamented that the prices of life-saving drugs remain unaffordable for many Nigerians, despite the June 2024 directive abolishing tariffs, excise duties, and VAT on medical equipment and raw materials.
He noted that the policy, designed to lower production costs and boost local pharmaceutical competitiveness, had not translated into relief for patients. Oyintiloye cited examples of essential medicines, such as Insulin, Metformin, and Exforge, which remain costly.
The APC chieftain urged President Tinubu to ensure strict enforcement of the executive order by compelling local manufacturers and importers to comply. He expressed optimism that the President would address the issue, given his commitment to quality healthcare delivery.
Oyintiloye's call comes as many Nigerians continue to struggle with soaring drug prices, despite government interventions.