Calls for regulatory reforms took centre stage at the ongoing Pharma West Africa Exhibition, as industry stakeholders urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to expedite drug approval processes to enhance market access in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, Mr. S. Nayab, a representative of the Ronak Group of Companies, emphasized the need for NAFDAC to accelerate product registration timelines to support the growth of the pharmaceutical sector. He noted that Ronak, a multinational company with a century-long history in various sectors including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and FMCG, is eager to expand its presence in Nigeria but faces regulatory hurdles.
“We are here in Nigeria for the exhibition to offer high-quality pharmaceutical products to the Nigerian people at affordable prices. This is our second time at Pharma West Africa, and we are enjoying our presence here,” Nayab said.
He disclosed that Ronak Group is actively seeking partnerships with major importers and local manufacturers to introduce their products into the Nigerian market. However, he cited delays in product registration as a significant challenge limiting the company’s expansion.
“The major limitation we are facing is with NAFDAC. It is taking too long to get our products registered. If NAFDAC can fast-track the process, we can introduce up to 1,000 products, just as we have successfully done in Ghana, where we have dominated the market for 15 years,” Nayab explained.
He further revealed that while Ronak Group has 1,000 products registered with Ghana’s FDA, the slow approval rate in Nigeria—where only two products are cleared per year—makes it difficult for pharmaceutical companies to thrive.
Similarly, Mr. Simranjit Singh Gandhi, Founder and Director of Aprazer Healthcare Private Limited, India, also echoed concerns about regulatory delays. Gandhi, whose company is exhibiting at Pharma West Africa for the first time, stressed the need for smooth engagements with NAFDAC to ensure their products enter the Nigerian market through legitimate channels.
“We have some business deals to finalize, but we want people to see the huge opportunities in Pharma West Africa because this is a massive event,” he said. “Nigeria is a great market, and we are here to have discussions with NAFDAC and business associates to ensure our products are available legally.”
The three-day Pharma West Africa Exhibition, which held between March 18 and 20, 2025 at Landmark Hall, Victoria Island, Lagos, drew hundreds of pharmaceutical manufacturers and industry players from across the world. Exhibitors showcased their products and engaged with stakeholders on ways to improve medicine accessibility and quality in Nigeria and the wider West African region.
Kieran Westlake, Exhibition Manager, commended local and international exhibitors for their efforts in strengthening the pharmaceutical industry. He expressed optimism about the future of the event, which is now in its second edition and gaining traction globally.
“I must give kudos to all the pharmacists and companies that have participated in this event. Their passion has attracted many international firms, and I see Pharma West Africa growing to its full potential in the next five years,” Westlake said.
He noted that the exhibition has received impressive attendance from both local and international visitors, with robust interactions taking place between industry stakeholders.
“I also appreciate the strong participation from the West African region, as they have provided valuable insights to guests. I hope, over time, this platform will create more opportunities for pharmaceutical businesses,” he added.
