In a bold step to address rising drug costs and improve healthcare delivery, the Katsina State Government has entered into a strategic partnership with the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMGMAN). The agreement is expected to significantly enhance the supply of affordable, high-quality medicines across the state.
The collaboration, spearheaded by the Katsina State Drugs and Medical Supplies Agency (DMSA) in conjunction with the State Ministry of Health, forms part of the broader healthcare agenda championed by Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda. The initiative aims to ensure that essential medicines are consistently available in all government-owned healthcare facilities—particularly in underserved rural communities.
Under the new arrangement, a selection of indigenous pharmaceutical companies were vetted and approved based on their compliance with NAFDAC regulations, competitive pricing structures, and demonstrated ability to meet strict delivery timelines. These companies will now serve as frontline suppliers of essential drugs to the state’s health system.
At the official signing event, Hon. Musa Adamu Funtua, the State Commissioner for Health, described the move as “a timely and necessary response to the nation’s health sector challenges.” He emphasized that the government is fully committed to making healthcare more accessible for every citizen, regardless of location or economic status.
Echoing this sentiment, the Executive Secretary of DMSA, Pharm. Fatima Sha’aibu, highlighted that the pharmaceutical partners have agreed to uphold rigorous quality standards while ensuring fast and cost-effective delivery. “This partnership is built on trust, accountability, and performance,” she said. “Any breach in quality or service will lead to automatic disqualification from the program.”
The announcement comes amid national concerns over drug shortages and increasing medication prices. By engaging with trusted local manufacturers, the Katsina State Government hopes to stabilize drug supply chains and reduce preventable illnesses and deaths.
In a related development, FIDSON Pharmaceuticals — the largest pharmaceutical manufacturer in Nigeria and a key supplier to the DMSA — hosted officials from Katsina State on a guided tour of its manufacturing facility. The visit, which aimed to verify compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), underscored the company’s commitment to maintaining product quality and regulatory standards.
Officials from the agency described the tour as “reassuring,” noting that FIDSON’s facility met both NAFDAC and international best practice benchmarks. The visit is expected to pave the way for further quality assurance engagements with other suppliers.
The Drugs and Medical Supplies Agency reaffirmed its mission to support the government’s healthcare objectives through sustainable and transparent drug procurement practices. With this new partnership, Katsina is taking a firm step toward strengthening its health system and ensuring equitable healthcare access for its growing population.
