The Director-General of the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), Professor Martins Emeje, has emphasized the importance of investing in traditional medicine research to provide accessible and affordable healthcare options, particularly in resource-limited areas like Africa.
Speaking at a forum celebrating African Traditional Medicines Day in Lagos, Professor Emeje noted that traditional medicine, which focuses on holistic well-being, can complement conventional medical practices.
He stressed that research in natural medicines is crucial to validate the efficacy and safety of traditional remedies, potentially leading to improved healthcare outcomes.
Professor Emeje lamented the stigma associated with traditional medicine, saying, “More than in any other area of health, people are even ashamed of talking about traditional medicine. But the truth is, it has been part of our lives for centuries.”
“For any headway to be made in the area of traditional medicines research, the research must outrightly acceptable.” he stated
He advocated for cultural acceptability and recognition of traditional medical practitioners as professionals.
The renowned scientist also called for the institutionalization of traditional medicine, suggesting that traditional medical practitioners should undergo formal training and certification, similar to conventional medical professionals.
Professor Emeje noted that “Pharmacy is under Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, Medicine is Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria even as Nursing by the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria.
So also, the Council for of legal education oversees the law profession.
These professional groups or councils are responsible for the professional practise of the professionals that have already been trained from the universities,”
Other speakers at the event including Neurotoxicologist and Integrative medicine expert, Dr John Tor-Agbidye and the pioneer Head of Department, Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the Federal Ministry of Health, Hajiya Zainab Shariff, reiterated the need for proper documentation and credibility to attain cultural acceptability of the practice of traditional medicines in Nigeria
The event’s theme, “Training and Documentation: The Panacea for Strengthening Evidence Base for Traditional Medicine in Nigeria,” highlighted the importance of standardizing traditional medicine practices.
Reporting by Olusegun Haastrup