Lagos State Advocates for Research-Driven Traditional Medicine to Enhance Healthcare Access

The Lagos State Government is calling for a surge in research and innovation to unlock the potential of traditional medicine, emphasizing its role in expanding healthcare access.

 This initiative was highlighted during the 2026 African Traditional Medicine Day at the NUT Pavilion in Ikeja.

Dayo Lajide, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, pointed out that traditional medicine remains vital in African healthcare due to its accessibility, affordability, and cultural acceptance. 

He stressed that the ongoing relevance of this sector deserves significant investment in research and development to validate the safety, quality, and efficacy of traditional practices.

Under the theme “Reflection on Research and Development Efforts of Traditional Medicine Towards Achieving Universal Health Coverage in the African Region,” the event aimed to integrate indigenous medical knowledge into a credible healthcare system.

Lajide noted that, while traditional medicine has served communities for generations, its potential can be fully realized through collaboration among practitioners, researchers, and regulators.

 He advocated for the establishment of acceptable standards to bolster public confidence in these practices.

Babatunde Adele, the Registrar of the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the celebration should serve as a catalyst for serious discussions on advancing the sector. 

He highlighted the need for proper documentation and scientific investigation of Africa’s indigenous medical knowledge, which has often remained informal.

Adele stressed that converting traditional medical knowledge into evidence-based, accessible healthcare solutions is essential for complementing conventional healthcare systems and achieving Universal Health Coverage. 

He underscored the importance of collaboration among government agencies, practitioners, researchers, and industry partners to drive this agenda forward.

The ongoing reliance on traditional medicine in African communities underscores the need for rigorous research and regulation.

 Lajide reiterated that investing in research can bridge the gap between traditional and modern healthcare systems, ensuring that both can coexist effectively.

The event gathered a diverse audience, including government officials, traditional medicine practitioners, and academic institutions, all focused on exploring the future of traditional medicine in Lagos and beyond.

In conclusion, the Lagos State Government remains committed to developing traditional medicine responsibly, balancing innovation and regulation with its cultural significance. 

This collaborative approach is essential for integrating traditional practices into the broader healthcare landscape and enhancing overall health outcomes in the region.