By Christopher Ajewole 
The cost of healthcare in Nigeria is reaching alarming levels as delays in the federal government’s tariff exemption policy push drug prices through the roof. In June 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed an executive order to remove tariffs, excise duties, and VAT on pharmaceutical raw materials and equipment. The goal? To lower production costs, boost local manufacturing, and make essential medicines more affordable.
But fast forward to 2025, and the policy remains stuck in limbo. The result? Medication prices have skyrocketed, forcing many Nigerians to pay over 100% more for life-saving drugs.
From Affordable to Out of Reach: The Price Surge
Over the past year, hypertension medications have seen staggering price hikes:
- Lebatalol & Natrilix – From ₦2,500 to ₦5,000+ per sachet (+100%)
- Amlodipine – From ₦300 to ₦600-₦700 per tablet (+100%)
These drastic increases have left many struggling to afford essential treatments, worsening the country’s healthcare accessibility crisis.
Industry Experts Sound the Alarm
The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) has raised concerns about the erratic drug pricing, especially for medicines covered under the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). According to FCT PSN Chairman, Salamatu Orakwelu, affordable and high-quality medications are critical to effective healthcare. She emphasized the need for collaboration between policymakers, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders to ensure price stability and improve drug accessibility.
What’s Next? A Healthcare System at a Crossroads
With the tariff exemptions still on hold, local pharmaceutical companies are struggling, and Nigerians are paying the price. If the government fails to act swiftly, the healthcare crisis could spiral further, leaving millions without access to essential medications.
Will the authorities finally implement these crucial reforms, or will Nigerians continue to bear the burden of soaring drug costs? Time is running out.
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