Prof. Martins Emeje, Director-General of the Nigerian Natural Medicines Development Agency (NNMDA), said 2026 will mark a major turning point for the growth and acceptance of natural medicines in Nigeria.
Emeje said this yesterday in an interview with NAN in Abuja, while speaking on the outlook for natural medicines for the year.
The D-G, who was recently appointed Co-Chair on the World Health Organisation (WHO) Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Medicine (STAG-TM), said the appointment would contribute to the growth.
“The appointment with the WHO has renewed the hope of Nigerians in traditional medicines.
“In 2026, natural medicine has moved naturally to the next level, to the level where people are no longer ashamed of talking about natural medicines.
Emeje noted that natural medicine has gradually gained social and professional acceptance and is now entering a more advanced phase of development.
He highlighted the growing global relevance of natural medicines, noting that international trade in medicinal plants continues to expand.
According to him, Nigeria must position itself strategically within this global value chain through proper documentation, research and product development.
He said the agency would prioritise documentation, research and development of Nigeria’s natural medicine products in 2026.
Emeje disclosed that NNMDA currently had 23 herbal products undergoing listing with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
“We are building on our collaboration with NAFDAC to conduct clinical trials on some of our products,” he said.
He explained that although the agency was unable to carry out the planned clinical trials in the previous year due to lack of funds, efforts were underway to secure resources to implement them in the year.
The NNMDA Director-General described 2026 as a demanding but promising year for the agency but they remained resolute to strengthening Nigeria’s natural medicines sector.