Three Nigerian delegations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two Pakistani companies at the Engineering and Healthcare Show in Lahore, Pakistan.

The MoU was signed at the end of a three-day Engineering and Healthcare Show under the ‘Look Africa Policy’ of the Pakistani government to foster cooperation in trade and commerce.

The agreement was signed between Bajwa Pharmaceuticals Group of Companies and an Agricultural Manufacturing Machinery company called Agroasia.

Ahmed Yakassai, the former president of Pharmaceuticals Society of Nigeria, who signed an MoU with Bajwa, said the agreement would promote the exclusive distribution of genuine medical supplies, especially anaesthetic products, in Nigeria.

He added that he would ensure that the products get registered with the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration Control (NAFDAC) for proper documentation.

“So we will start working ahead to see if we can establish a joint venture manufacturing plant in Nigeria, particularly in Kano state. We are going to help fight fake drugs and supply high quality and genuine medicines, fight the issue of drug abuse because if we have the control, we will be able to solve most issues pertaining to drug abuse,” Mr Yakassai explained.

He added, “Also, the aspect of manufacturing will generate employment for our teeming young youths because the value chain is huge, and I am also promoting the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients in Nigeria.”

Adnan Khan, the director-global of the business unit of Bajwa Group of Companies, said it was a milestone in the history of partnership between Nigeria and Pakistan, especially in the pharmaceutical sector.

“As we have heard that the quality of medicine is the real issue in Nigeria, and bringing these quality pharmaceutical products into Nigeria by Bajwa will be an honour,” said Mr Khan. “Also, we will be sure that the Nigerian health community is safe, and I pray this increases our partnership not only in pharmaceutical products but in other areas.”

Also, at the signing, Chimezie Anyakora, the CEO of Bloom Public Health, said it was an amazing event for Nigeria and Pakistan because Africa has inadequate medicines to support the diseases in the continent.

“Africa does not have enough quality medicine to cater for the various illnesses in it, from manufacture to supply,” he said.

(NAN)