Policies And Practice In Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical Sector: A Mixed Methods Exploration of Stakeholders’ Perspectives On Strategic Reforms

Abstract Background: Amongst other objectives, the National Drug Policy was designed to improve access to medicines, whilst also stimulating socioeconomic development. The policy was also intended to promote pharmaceutical research and development in Nigeria. Despite its criticality in the achievement of national Medicines’ Security, evidence suggests a policy failure with consequent implications on attendant national health indices. This study aimed at assessing the views of pharmaceutical sector practitioners and other stakeholders, on the status quo as well as on strategies that can improve access to health whilst developing the sector. Methods: Data were collected using questionnaires which were administered to stakeholders present during an event that focused on improving the Nigerian pharmaceutical sector. Questionnaires were completed and returned. Quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences, whilst textual data were analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Majority (48%) of the study participants indicated that current policy ecosystem was hostile for pharmaceutical sector growth and development. Also, a considerable proportion (97.3%) of the study participants indicated that increased investment in health research could stimulate the development of the pharmaceutical sector. Majority of the study participants indicated the need for collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, research institutes and the petrochemical industry.Conclusions: This study consequently identified several critical factors that can stimulate development in the sector, including increased funding of research; stringent implementation of existing policies; and prioritization of pharmaceutical sector by government and other key stakeholders.