Healthcare workers across Nigeria have raised serious concerns over increasing shortages of essential drugs in public hospitals, warning that patient care is being compromised.
Doctors and pharmacists in several states report that commonly prescribed medications, including antibiotics and chronic disease treatments, are either unavailable or too expensive for hospital pharmacies to stock. Patients are often directed to private pharmacies, where prices are significantly higher.
Health professionals blame the situation on rising import costs, foreign exchange challenges, and delays in government procurement processes. Some warn that prolonged shortages could lead to treatment interruptions and preventable complications.
The Federal Ministry of Health acknowledged the challenges and said measures are being explored to improve drug availability, including local pharmaceutical production and supply chain reforms.
