The call for the Federal government to initiate medical palliatives in order to prevent unnecessary deaths due to lack of access to quality drugs was made by Sam Ohuabunwa, the former Chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and former President of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, during a burial ceremony in Arochukwu, Abia State.

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Ohuabunwa emphasized the importance of providing medical palliatives to Nigerians, particularly those who are economically disadvantaged, to prevent a high number of deaths resulting from their inability to afford medications or manage their health conditions effectively.

He highlighted the necessity of implementing medical palliatives to counteract the impact of escalating drug prices in pharmacies across the country, noting that previous palliative efforts primarily focused on food distribution rather than addressing the critical need for medical assistance.

The former Chairman pointed out that the surge in drug costs could be attributed to the devaluation of the Naira and the challenges faced by the nation’s currency against the US Dollar, as a significant portion of medical supplies are imported from foreign countries.

Ohuabunwa urged the government to prioritize medical palliatives alongside food relief measures, stressing that while food aid is beneficial, it is equally essential to provide medical support to ensure the survival of Nigerians facing health challenges.