Traditional Medicine Policy

A Policy establishes a framework for regulating and integrating traditional medicine into Nigeria's healthcare system. It targets traditional medicine practitioners, regulatory bodies, and the general public. This ensures that practices are safe and properly integrated with conventional health services.

What Is This Policy?

A policy that provides a framework for the regulation, practice, and integration of traditional medicine into Nigeria's healthcare system, recognizing the widespread use of traditional remedies and practitioners by the population.

Who Does It Target?

Traditional medicine practitioners and herbalists Regulatory bodies overseeing traditional medicine Researchers in traditional and complementary medicine The general public using traditional remedies

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Ensure that traditional medicine practices in Nigeria are safe, regulated, and where appropriate, integrated with conventional health services to improve overall healthcare access and outcomes.

Key Features

Practitioner Registration: Requirements for registering traditional medicine practitioners and their practice Product Regulation: NAFDAC oversight of herbal and traditional medicine products for safety and quality Research Promotion: Support for scientific research on the safety, efficacy, and standardization of traditional remedies Integration Framework: Guidelines for collaboration between traditional and conventional health practitioners Public Education: Awareness campaigns on safe use of traditional medicines and recognizing harmful practices

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active with limited integration in practice Coverage: Nationwide Lead Agency: Federal Ministry of Health, Traditional Medicine Division Partners: WHO, NAFDAC, traditional medicine practitioners' associations

How to Access

Traditional medicine practitioners and product manufacturers must register with the relevant authorities. Practitioners register through state traditional medicine boards or councils Herbal products must be registered with NAFDAC before commercial distribution Contact the Traditional Medicine Division of the Federal Ministry of Health for guidance

Official Resources

Website: health.gov.ng Contact: Traditional Medicine Division, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja

Legal Framework

Operates under the National Health Act 2014, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control Act 1993 (for herbal medicines), the National Drug Policy, and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria Act. Draws on the WHO Strategy on Traditional Medicine 2019-2024, the African Union Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan, and the Codex Alimentarius standards for herbal products.