The Federal Government of Nigeria has introduced a digital inventory model aimed at ending frequent stockouts of essential drugs in hospitals nationwide. The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s healthcare system, ensure consistent availability of medicines, and promote universal health coverage.
During the launch, government officials expressed optimism that the new digital model would guarantee transparency, improve affordability, and transform drug management processes across public health facilities.
Hospitals Raise Concerns on Procurement Delays
While welcoming the initiative, hospital administrators raised concerns over drug procurement delays that could affect urgent patient care.
Prof. Eme Bassey, Chairman of the Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) Committee, commended the government’s effort but stressed the need for flexibility in the system.
“We must ask ourselves what happens to drugs urgently required when processes take days. Transparency is key, but we must also address realities on the ground,” he cautioned.
Advancing Universal Health Coverage
The government believes that with the support of stakeholders, the digital inventory model will significantly reduce shortages, enhance efficiency in the supply chain, and ensure that essential medicines are always available to patients who need them most.
Officials noted that the reform is a critical step toward achieving Nigeria’s universal health coverage goals by making healthcare delivery more reliable and affordable.
