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Nigerians Embrace Traditional Healing As Pharmaceuticals Become Unaffordable
Nigerians Embrace Traditional Healing As Pharmaceuticals Become Unaffordable....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Traditional Medicine Gains Traction Amid Soaring Drug Prices
Victor Ayeni delves into the rising popularity of traditional medicine amidst the exorbitant costs of conventional drugs in Nigeria, highlighting the promising potential for research in alternative medicine……..CONTINUE READING
In the bustling Sango Ota market, nestled in the Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State, Mrs. Ayoni Oladipo proudly displays her assortment of herbal remedies. Adorning the wooden table before her shop are variously shaped plastic bottles, each labeled with the ailments they aim to remedy.
Weekly, customers from the vicinity and beyond flock to the shop of this Osogbo native, who confesses her expertise in herbal concoctions was inherited from her mother.
During a visit to her shop on a Tuesday morning, Mrs. Oladipo, a cheerful 41-year-old, enthusiastically provided herbal mixtures for treating conditions such as diarrhea and malaria, reflecting the high demand for her products.
“I receive a lot of patronage, even from outside Ogun State. People come from Lagos, Ibadan, and even Abuja seeking remedies for various ailments,” remarked Mrs. Oladipo, radiating genuine joy.
Responding to skepticism about the efficacy of herbal products, Mrs. Oladipo recounted success stories, citing instances where her herbal remedies had effectively treated serious conditions such as stroke and infertility.
Despite economic inflation driving up the cost of her herbs, Mrs. Oladipo noted increased patronage, as people increasingly recognize the affordability of herbal medicine compared to Western pharmaceuticals.
Another herbal vendor, Mrs. Kemisola Banwo, echoed Mrs. Oladipo’s sentiments, noting a shift in public perception towards traditional medicine. Banwo emphasized the role of education in changing attitudes towards herbal remedies.
Rising Demand Amid Economic Challenges
With the prices of modern drugs soaring, many Nigerians are turning to herbal medicines and alternative therapies, a trend driven by the high cost of imported pharmaceuticals.
According to data from the International Drug Centre, import prices of pharmaceutical products are projected to exceed N900 billion in 2024, exacerbating the financial strain on consumers.
As pharmaceutical companies like GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria Plc and Sanofi shift their distribution models, drug prices continue to surge, prompting citizens to seek relief in traditional herbs.
Taiwo Divine, a chef in Ibadan, attested to relying solely on herbal concoctions to address his family’s health needs, citing affordability and efficacy as decisive factors.
Similarly, Treasure Etteh, a marketer in Lagos, highlighted the affordability and accessibility of herbal medicine amidst rising drug costs, expressing a preference for herbal remedies over costly pharmaceuticals.
Untapped Potential and Calls for Standardization
While Nigeria boasts a rich diversity of natural herbs and plants, experts assert that the country has yet to fully harness the potential of traditional medicine.
Dr. Olusina Ajidahun, CEO of Lifebox Labs, emphasized the need for research and standardization in herbal medicine to ensure safe and effective treatments. He advocated for the integration of traditional and conventional medicine to expand healthcare options for Nigerians.
Echoing Dr. Ajidahun’s sentiments, pharmacists Fahd Khalid-Salako and James Ucheaga underscored the importance of scientific investigation and standardization in herbal medicine. They called for government support in promoting research and integrating traditional medicine into mainstream healthcare.
Government Recognition and Future Outlook
Amidst the growing acceptance of traditional medicine, stakeholders stress the need for evidence-based approaches and collaboration between traditional healers and healthcare professionals.
Government officials, including the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, have acknowledged the significant role of traditional medicine in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape. Efforts are underway to integrate traditional healing practices with modern healthcare systems to enhance accessibility and promote holistic well-being.
As Nigeria navigates economic challenges and strives to improve healthcare access, the potential of traditional medicine remains a valuable resource that, with proper research and regulation, could provide affordable and effective healthcare solutions for millions of Nigerians.
A group of Nigerians has staged a protest at the United Kingdom Parliament, calling for the removal of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The demonstrators reportedly gathered outside the parliamentary complex, expressing dissatisfaction with the leadership of the electoral body in Nigeria and demanding immediate action.
They insisted that the INEC chairman should be removed, alleging concerns over credibility and trust in the electoral process as the country prepares for the next election cycle.
The protest drew attention from passersby and security personnel, as the group maintained their position that electoral reforms and leadership changes were necessary to restore public confidence.
Sir Uyi has responded strongly to critics of his involvement in nightclub businesses, insisting that such ventures represent only a small part of his wider activities.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a firm reaction to recent criticism linked to Vaniti, he stated that people are focusing too much on his nightlife businesses while ignoring other aspects of his work and achievements.
He stressed that his nightclub operations do not define his entire identity or professional portfolio, adding that he is involved in several other ventures beyond entertainment and hospitality.
According to him, the criticism reflects a narrow perception of what he does, and he believes his broader contributions are being overlooked.
Sir Uyi maintained that he remains focused on his various commitments despite public scrutiny surrounding his nightlife business interests.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of seven suspected militia herdsmen in connection with the abduction of passengers travelling in an 18-seater Benue Links bus along the Makurdi–Otukpo road last Wednesday.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The victims, which included candidates of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) heading to Otukpo for their examinations, have all been successfully rescued.
Speaking while briefing Governor Hyacinth Alia in Makurdi during the presentation of the freed victims, the Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, said the rescue operation was achieved through coordinated efforts of multiple security agencies.
He explained that five of the abducted passengers were first released, while the remaining 13 were rescued on Sunday morning without injuries.
According to him, the combined pressure from security forces, supported by the state government and the Inspector-General of Police, led to the successful outcome of the operation.
Emenari further disclosed that eight suspects are currently in custody, adding that seven of them are strongly linked to the kidnapping incident, with some victims already identifying them.
He also noted that clearance operations have begun across forest areas in the state to flush out criminal groups, in line with directives from security authorities.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, while receiving the rescued passengers, expressed concern over rising cases of kidnapping in the state but welcomed the safe return of all 18 victims.
He confirmed that among those rescued were eight candidates on their way to write examinations, and called on the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to reschedule the affected exams for them.
The governor assured that the state government remains committed to supporting the victims and strengthening security across Benue State, while also urging residents to provide credible information to security agencies.
He further directed the state health authorities to conduct medical evaluations for all rescued persons and promised government support for those affected.
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