Agency showcases indigenous health innovations for malaria, others

The Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) has unveiled a new wave of indigenous health innovations aimed at tackling Nigeria’s deadliest diseases, including malaria and Hepatitis B.

The innovations were showcased during the agency’s second yearly public engagement held in Lagos, where NNMDA, Director General, Prof. Martins Emeje, reaffirmed its mission in bridging the gap between tradition and science.

At the event themed “Natural Medicine for National Security: A New Frontier in Malaria Prevention and Control,” malaria was cited as a leading cause of death that reduces productivity in Nigeria, prompting the development of homegrown preventive and curative options.

Emeje emphasised the agency’s focus on developing homegrown medical solutions and its evolving role in national development. He described the event as a practical demonstration of transparency and progress, aimed not only at informing the public but also showcasing tangible outcomes of the agency’s research and innovations.

According to him, the agency had previously launched four flagship products in March last year, which included treatments for sickle cell disease, diabetes, immune boosting, and anti-ageing. He noted that three additional products have since been completed: a natural remedy for Hepatitis B, a nanotechnology-based anti-diarrheal solution, and a formulation for peptic ulcers.

Emeje credited these successes to the tireless efforts of NNMDA scientists, many of whom work in shifts without receiving additional allowances.

He noted that the agency, though established in 1997, has seen its relevance redefined under the current administration.

He added that the institution now addresses animal and plant health, promote Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) to ensure high-quality raw materials for its formulations.

The DG stressed that the agency’s mission goes beyond preserving tradition, aiming instead to modernise and commercialise indigenous knowledge to tackle real-world problems.

According to him, Nigeria could generate millions of jobs by investing in the local development of medicinal plants resources currently exported and re-imported as pharmaceutical products.

He called on the Federal Government to formally endorse natural medicine, emphasising that legal and institutional backing would encourage wider acceptance. He highlighted a significant milestone: a recent resolution by the House of Representatives declaring natural medicine no longer as “alternative,” but as a legitimate and mainstream healthcare approach.

Further insights into the agency’s work on malaria control were presented by NNMDA Lead Scientist, Hassan Lawal, who explained that the growing resistance of malaria parasites to common medications prompted the agency to seek alternative and locally sourced solutions.

He outlined a comprehensive approach that began with engaging traditional healers, cataloging indigenous treatments, and subjecting them to scientific evaluation.

Lawal listed three core products developed by the agency: a larvicide targeting mosquito breeding sites, an indoor repellent spray with a pleasant scent, and a plant-based body cream for outdoor protection.

He emphasised that all products were rigorously tested for safety, including their effects on the lungs, liver, and skin. He stated that herbal tea formulation to alleviate malaria symptoms was also introduced, with instructions for proper dosage.

He linked the malaria initiative to Executive Order No. 5, which prioritises the use of local content in science and technology. According to him, all the products were developed entirely from indigenous resources and contributed directly to the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Representative of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Dr Bose Salami, lauded the agency’s impact and acknowledged the importance of NNMDA’s research and advocacy in laying the foundation for a healthier, and self-reliant nation.

Speaking on behalf of the Commander of the 81 Division Medical Services & Hospital, Major General F.U. Mijinyawa, Col. Samson Idowu, noted the agency’s visionary leadership and commitment. He praised the integration of traditional practices into scientific protocols and stated that the military health corps would continue to collaborate with NNMDA.

Also, representing the Comptroller of Immigration Service, S.I. Bikini-Rossi, expressed personal and professional admiration for the agency’s work. She noted that malaria is often underestimated and commended NNMDA for its national concern.

She encouraged the agency to extend its focus to other public health issues, including maternal and neonatal care. Sharing her own experience of losing a child to pregnancy complications, she called for more attention to healthcare solutions rooted in cultural relevance.

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