By Isa Hashim 
May 8, 2025

In a landmark achievement for Nigeria's pharmaceutical industry, Afrimedical Manufacturing and Supplies Limited has become the first syringe manufacturer in Nigeria and the West and Central African region to receive World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification for its products.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) announced on May 7 that Afrimedical's 0.5ml auto-disable syringes, manufactured in Ogun State, have met the rigorous quality standards required for WHO prequalification status. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Nigeria's efforts to strengthen local production of essential medical devices.

A Result of Strategic Collaboration

The prequalification follows years of collaboration between NAFDAC and Afrimedical, underpinned by government policies designed to boost domestic manufacturing capabilities. A key initiative behind this success is the 5+5 regulatory directive, introduced in 2019, which specifically encourages local production of medicines and medical devices.

Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, Director-General/CEO of NAFDAC, highlighted that the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent global supply chain disruptions intensified the agency's focus on evaluating and improving locally produced medical supplies through "rigorous inspections, quality testing, and technical support."

Global Recognition and Economic Impact

Afrimedical's WHO-prequalified syringes are now eligible for global procurement channels, positioning Nigeria to reduce its dependence on imported medical supplies while promoting local industry growth. The company's success included achieving ISO 13485 certification, demonstrating its commitment to international quality management standards for medical devices.

"This achievement positions Nigeria to reduce dependence on imports while promoting local industry and safeguarding public health," noted NAFDAC in its statement.

Government and International Support

The development comes as part of Nigeria's broader industrialization agenda under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. NAFDAC acknowledged the support of international development partners, particularly UNICEF, in reaching this milestone.

In its press release, NAFDAC urged other local manufacturers to "embrace this path of excellence through compliance and collaboration" with regulatory authorities.

Future Outlook

This prequalification is expected to boost confidence in locally manufactured medical products and potentially open doors for other Nigerian manufacturers to seek similar international recognition. It also aligns with Africa's broader push for pharmaceutical independence and resilience in healthcare supply chains.

Industry analysts suggest that local production of essential medical supplies like syringes could significantly reduce healthcare costs in Nigeria while creating skilled employment opportunities and facilitating technology transfer.

The WHO prequalification program, which evaluates the quality, safety, and efficacy of medical products, serves as a benchmark for procurement agencies worldwide, including UN organizations and global health initiatives.