It’s a bold move that could redefine Nigeria’s economic future as the House of Representatives throws its weight behind the natural medicine revolution led by the Nigerian Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA).

The Director General/Chief Executive of NNMDA, Prof. Martins Emeje told the delegation from the House of Representatives’ Committee on Legislative Compliance, during a working visit to the Agency’s office complex in Lagos.

“Give me 15,000 staff, and we will stop looking for oil money,” Prof. Emeje boldly stated, urging urgent government investment in Nigeria’s indigenous knowledge systems.

 Nigeria could transit from oil dependency to become a net exporter of medicinal plants and natural medical products within 12 months, he emphasised.

House Committee Chairman, Hon. Yusuf Ahmed Badau, praised the agency’s efforts, pledging full legislative support.

“This is a game changer. Natural medicine will reduce dependence on imports, create jobs, and provide affordable care. We are with you.” He assured.

Prof. Emeje’s call to action is clear:

✅ Invest in what we own.

✅ Empower our researchers.

✅ Build universal health coverage around our identity.

Natural medicine is not just a healthcare alternative—it’s a national asset.

The vision goes beyond economic diversification. With over 1,750 medicinal plants documented across the country and international collaborations underway, NNMDA is laying the groundwork for clinical trials, NAFDAC-approved herbal product integration, and global trade in African traditional medicine.

It’s time Nigeria believed in its roots.