Reps push for use of traditional medicine
The House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards the promotion and use of natural medicine in the treatment of diseases in Nigeria.
This followed the adoption of a motion during Wednesday’s plenary on “Need for Nigerians to promote and Prioritise natural medicine,” sponsored by the member representing Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency, Akwa Ibom State, Mr Emmanuel Ukpong-Udo.
Udo in a brief synopsis of the motion noted that globally, the present-day healthcare enterprise leans more towards nature-based remedies, “And this is without exception to any known human ailment.”
According to him, “Natural medicine is the most accessible and preferred healthcare delivery system in most communities in Nigeria today.
“We acknowledge that the country needs to stop relying on the importation of active pharmaceutical ingredients, herbal medicines, and products from other countries while expected to meet Nigeria’s healthcare insecurities.
“The House recognise that reconsidering natural medicine in Nigeria opens up possibilities for sustainable development, job creation, and wealth creation in addition to protecting the cultural legacy of the country.
“We are worried that the country could not make the necessary achievements by making traditional medicine subservient to imported medicine.”
The Young Progressives Congress lawmaker further noted that the conspiracy against natural medicines in Nigeria is huge, stressing that “Addressing natural remedies as “alternative” medicare perpetuates the stigma and undermines the potential benefits. Hence the diminished attention and support on the national scene.”
The House followed the adoption of the motion and mandated its Committees on Healthcare Services and Science and Technology to “Strategise with stakeholders and the Natural Medicine Development Agency.
It also urged the Committees to “Connect the possibilities of natural medicine, reorient Nigerians, and look inwards for solutions to health challenges and report within four back within four weeks.
