Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a senior leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, has urged President Bola Tinubu to enforce the executive order on reducing essential drug prices in Nigeria.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye, a former member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council (PCC), said many Nigerians still face financial strain due to rising drug costs. He added that several life-saving medications remain expensive despite the June 2024 executive order.
Executive Order’s Objectives
The executive order removes tariffs, excise duties, and VAT on machinery, equipment, and raw materials used in pharmaceutical production. It aims to cut manufacturing costs and make locally produced drugs more affordable.
However, Oyintiloye said the policy has not delivered the expected results. Although the Nigeria Customs Service announced on March 26, 2025, that implementation had started, key drugs such as Insulin, Metformin, and Exforge remain costly. Some medications, including Augmentin and Ventolin inhalers, have seen minor price reductions, but most essential medicines remain expensive.
Call for Full Enforcement
Oyintiloye urged President Tinubu to ensure complete implementation of the executive order. “I appeal to the president to make sure this order benefits all Nigerians. Many people are still struggling with medical costs,” he said.
He praised the government’s commitment to improving healthcare. “The administration is working hard to provide quality healthcare, and I am confident it will address the remaining challenges,” Oyintiloye added.
Praise for Kidney Dialysis Subsidy
The APC leader commended President Tinubu for subsidizing kidney dialysis in federal hospitals. The subsidy reduces the cost of a single session from an average of ₦50,000 to ₦12,000. This provides significant relief to patients battling kidney disease.
“This initiative shows the president’s dedication to healthcare. It eases the burden on Nigerians facing serious medical and financial challenges,” he said.
Oyintiloye concluded that fully enforcing the executive order, along with healthcare subsidies, will improve access to medicines. It will also reduce financial stress for Nigerians. He urged citizens to support these government efforts for better healthcare across the country.
