FG Unveils Plan to Integrate Traditional Medicine into National Health System
By Erewunmi Peace
The Federal Government has unveiled a comprehensive plan to integrate traditional medicine into Nigeria’s national health system, with a focus on regulation, standardization, and evidence-based practice.
Speaking during the commemoration of African Traditional Medicine Day 2025, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, said the initiative will ensure that traditional medicine contributes effectively to healthcare delivery while protecting public safety.
The government’s roadmap includes:
Establishing a Department of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) within the Ministry of Health.
Reviving the Federal College of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (FEDCAM) to train practitioners.
Developing a Code of Ethics to regulate traditional medicine practice.
Documenting, validating, and standardizing local remedies to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
Strengthening partnerships with international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), West African Health Organisation (WAHO), and countries like China and India.
Dr. Salako emphasized that the plan will not only expand healthcare options for Nigerians but also boost the economy by promoting the commercialization of medicinal plants and creating jobs.
“Nigeria is blessed with rich biodiversity and indigenous knowledge in herbal medicine. Our goal is to harness this potential responsibly to improve health outcomes and contribute to national development,” he said.
Experts believe the integration of traditional medicine, once standardized, could reduce pressure on conventional healthcare systems and expand access to affordable treatments, particularly in rural areas.
The unveiling of the roadmap marks a significant step towards recognizing and formalizing traditional medicine as part of Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
