The government of Ogun State in Nigeria is taking proactive steps to empower herbalists and elevate traditional medicine to compete in the global market. The Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Alternate Medicine Board, Dr. Kafayat Lawal, announced the commencement of training for herbalists during a workshop in Abeokuta.
Dr. Lawal emphasized the importance of standardizing and regulating the practice of alternative medicine to enhance its credibility. The collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) aims to promote indigenous medicine and boost the state’s revenue.
During the workshop, Prof. Alfred Jaiyesinmi from Olabisi Onabanjo University highlighted key factors such as hygiene, dosage, and government registration essential for professional herbal practice. He also stressed the urgency of investing in herbal plantations to preserve medicinal plants facing extinction.
Dr. Olu Adeola, a representative of the Commonwealth Traditional Healers Association, praised the government’s commitment to developing alternative medicine. The efforts to train herbalists and improve the safety and efficacy of herbal products demonstrate a progressive approach towards traditional medicine in Ogun State.
By investing in the skills and knowledge of herbalists, Ogun State is not only preserving its cultural heritage but also positioning itself to tap into the growing global demand for traditional medicine. This initiative not only benefits the practitioners but also contributes to the sustainable utilization of natural resources for healthcare.
