The Federal Government has recognized Kogi State for its continuous commitment to ensuring citizens have access to safe and effective medicines. The commendation followed a visit to the Kogi State Drugs Management Agency (KSDMA) in Lokoja by officials from the National Products Supplies Chain Management Programme.
Pharmacist Mrs. Onokwu Celine, the program coordinator, highlighted Kogi State’s robust framework to prevent counterfeit pharmaceuticals from circulating. She praised the recent enactment of the Drug and Food Administration (DFA) bills, which have strengthened the regulatory environment for drugs within the state.
During the visit, Mrs. Onokwu emphasized the importance of training warehouse managers in Product Master Data Management. She noted that accurate and well-organized data is crucial for tracking the availability and accountability of all pharmaceutical products across the supply chain.
Mrs. Onokwu also recommended that Kogi State consider increasing the capital base of the KSDMA and upgrading storage facilities to accommodate essential medical products efficiently. Establishing a governance system and steering committee to oversee agency operations was another key recommendation.
In response, Pharmacist Ibrahim Salamat Onize, Executive Secretary of KSDMA, affirmed that the state government, under Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, prioritizes healthcare. She acknowledged the support of the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, in strengthening the agency’s operations.
Pharmacist Onize highlighted the agency’s efforts in maintaining a strong essential drugs supply system in collaboration with the Ministry of Health. She assured that a governance structure would soon be inaugurated, ensuring proper oversight and improved service delivery. She also confirmed that the agency’s operational needs are actively addressed by the government.
The visiting team was officially received on behalf of the Commissioner for Health by Mrs. Abubakar Aishat Lami, Director of Administration at the Ministry. The collaboration underscores the state’s dedication to health sector improvement and efficient drug distribution for its citizens.
This recognition is a testament to Kogi State’s proactive measures in ensuring public access to quality medicines and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
: Kogi State Government has been commended for strengthening pharmaceutical regulation, improving drug accessibility, and ensuring accountability in its supply chain. The state continues to prioritize public health through robust policies, capacity building, and effective agency management.
: Stay informed on developments in healthcare and government initiatives by following Kogi State Ministry of Health updates and ensuring access to verified medical information.