Yakasai: Transforming Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical Industry Through Dedication

Ahmed Yakasai, the founder and CEO of Pharmaplus Nigeria Limited, is a prominent figure in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry. With a career dedicated to addressing critical challenges in drug production and public health, Yakasai has cemented his position as a leading voice for change in the sector.

In his latest book, The Pharmaceutical Industry and Drug Production in Nigeria, Yakasai delves into the evolution, challenges, and future opportunities for Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry. The book underscores his advocacy for transformative measures to strengthen local drug manufacturing, reduce reliance on imports, and improve healthcare delivery.

A Historical Perspective with a Vision for the Future

Yakasai traces the development of the pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria, beginning from the colonial era to modern times. He highlights significant milestones, including the rise of indigenous pharmaceutical companies and their contributions to national healthcare. Despite its potential, the industry faces systemic challenges that Yakasai argues must be addressed urgently.A key theme of the book is Nigeria’s overdependence on imported pharmaceuticals. This reliance has exposed the country to inflated costs, supply chain vulnerabilities, and quality control issues. Yakasai emphasises the need to build a robust local drug production ecosystem to ensure access to affordable, high-quality medicines.

Tackling Challenges in Local Drug Manufacturing

Yakasai advocates for establishing a strong local manufacturing base to improve access to essential medicines, boost the economy, and create jobs. He outlines the hurdles—high production costs, inadequate infrastructure, and inconsistent government policies—that local manufacturers face. His proposed solutions include policy reforms, government incentives, and fostering public-private partnerships to spur growth in the industry.

The book also critiques regulatory inefficiencies that have hampered the sector. Yakasai examines the role of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), commending its efforts to enhance quality control and combat counterfeit drugs while calling for stronger enforcement mechanisms and streamlined regulations.

Local Solutions with Global Aspirations

Yakasai’s vision extends beyond Nigeria. He explores how the country can position itself as a pharmaceutical hub in West Africa, leveraging trade agreements and regional partnerships to expand its footprint. Drawing lessons from India, Malaysia, and Indonesia, he stresses the importance of adopting global best practices while tailoring strategies to Nigeria’s unique context.

A Lifetime of Impact in the Pharmaceutical Sector

Born in Kano in 1960, Ahmed Yakasai’s career spans decades of impactful contributions to Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. A pharmacy graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, he has held diverse roles as a government official, academic, and business leader. Notably, he co-founded Taobat Pharma Industries Ltd in 1993 and served as the pioneer Chairman of Evans Baroque Ltd. As President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) from 2018 to 2021, Yakasai represented over 30,000 pharmacists and championed industry-strengthening policies.His advisory roles with organisations like the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) and the Pharma Consultative Group reflect his enduring commitment to advancing pharmaceutical development. A key achievement highlighted in his book is his collaboration with the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMGMAN) and NAFDAC to develop a prohibition list targeting 32 imported products. This initiative aims to stimulate local manufacturing by limiting imports of items that can be produced domestically.

A Call to Action for Stakeholders

Through his book, Yakasai underscores the importance of local excipient production, supply chain enhancements, and ethical practices in fostering a self-reliant pharmaceutical industry. He calls on government officials, industry leaders, and international partners to embrace homegrown solutions tailored to Nigeria’s socio-economic realities.Yakasai’s work highlights the interconnectedness of pharmaceutical advancements and public health outcomes. By reducing dependency on imports and prioritising local drug production, he envisions a future where affordable, locally produced medicines address critical health challenges, including malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV/AIDS.

Transforming Nigeria’s Pharmaceutical Landscape

The Pharmaceutical Industry and Drug Production in Nigeria provides a roadmap for revitalising Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector. With actionable insights on regulatory reforms, local manufacturing, and global integration, the book serves as a clarion call for stakeholders to prioritise drug security and public health. Yakasai’s vision is clear: a resilient pharmaceutical industry is vital to building a healthier, self-reliant Nigeria.