Leveraging technology and partnerships to strengthen post-market surveillance of substandard medicines in Nigeria

Abstract

The circulation of substandard and falsified (SF) medical products remains a persistent global health crisis, with a disproportionately severe impact on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Nigeria, as a major pharmaceutical market in Africa, is especially vulnerable due to a complex interplay of systemic challenges that weaken its regulatory framework. This review explores Nigeria's Post-Market Surveillance (PMS) landscape, highlighting key obstacles and leveraging recent advancements in technology and policy to propose an innovative, future-oriented strategy. Despite significant hurdles, the country has important opportunities to improve its PMS system through the strategic adoption of mobile authentication services, blockchain traceability, and artificial intelligence, along with targeted reforms. The paper concludes with specific, actionable policy recommendations, offering a roadmap for policymakers to develop a resilient, technology-driven PMS framework that safeguards public health and rebuilds trust in the nation's pharmaceutical supply chain.