Nigeria’s natural medicine heritage is receiving a well-deserved revival! The Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA) recently unveiled four locally-formulated drugs, sparking a call for renewed focus on traditional healing practices.
This development has been lauded by the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan. He emphasized the potential of natural medicine as a viable and affordable alternative for many Nigerians struggling with healthcare access and treatment costs.
Cardinal Onaiyekan highlighted thatNigeria boasts a rich tradition of natural remedies passed down for generations. These traditional practices, often unfairly overshadowed by modern medicine, deserve reevaluation.
The Archbishop drew inspiration from Eastern countries like India and China, where traditional medicine holds a respected position alongside modern medical practices. This collaborative approach offers a comprehensive and potentially more effective healthcare system.
Cardinal Onaiyekan dispeled misconceptions around traditional healers and emphasized the spiritual element is not “fetishism,” but rather an acknowledgment of the divine role in healing. This aligns with the Church’s focus on healing as a combination of human effort and divine intervention.
Nigeria’s healthcare system faces challenges. While modern medicine advancements are crucial, exploring the potential of natural remedies offers a complementary approach. The NNMDA’s work in developing these new drugs, as highlighted by Prof. Martins Emeje, the Director-General of the Agency, represents a significant step towards integrating traditional wisdom into Nigeria’s modern healthcare landscape. Prof. Emeje emphasizes the Agency’s dedication to fostering collaboration, innovation, and excellence in natural medicine, recognizing its vast potential for Nigerians.
