The Lagos and Ogun state governments are strengthening their collaboration to regulate traditional medicine, promote safe healthcare practices, and preserve indigenous medical knowledge. A delegation from the Ogun State Alternative Medicine Board recently visited the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board to study its regulatory framework and best practices. The visit aimed to enhance the regulation of traditional medicine and promote professionalism in the sector.
The Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board, established in 1980, has registered 9,645 active traditional medicine practitioners. The Board's responsibilities include professional development, monitoring, and promoting responsible healthcare practices. Its Registrar and Chief Executive Officer, Babatunde Adele, expressed the agency's readiness to share its experience and expertise with its Ogun counterpart to strengthen regulatory practices and promote professionalism.
The Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board has introduced regular training programs and a code of conduct for practitioners to improve professional standards, strengthen accountability, and curb unregulated operators. The agency is also implementing initiatives to reposition traditional medicine through research, documentation, standardization, and improved service delivery. These initiatives include a botanical garden in Epe, plans for additional traditional medicine clinics and laboratories, and zonal offices to bring regulatory services closer to practitioners and the public.
The Ogun State Alternative Medicine Board's Executive Secretary and Registrar, Dr. Charles Erinle, commended the Lagos Board for its institutional achievements and regulatory initiatives. The visit aimed to give his team first-hand knowledge of Lagos' operational structure, administrative processes, and regulatory strategies, which could serve as models for strengthening alternative medicine administration in Ogun State.
Dr. Tajudeen Olusesi, a former member of the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board, commended the Board for creating an enabling environment for organized traditional medicine practice. He noted that the Board had encouraged the establishment of model institutions and service centers, including traditional medicine training institutions, clinics, and herbal centers. The introduction of a data management system and periodic renewal of practitioners' licenses has also improved regulatory oversight.
The proposed collaboration between Lagos and Ogun states is expected to create opportunities for both institutions to exchange regulatory expertise, strengthen professional standards, and promote a more organized traditional medicine sector. The engagement underscores the growing importance of credible regulation, scientific research, proper documentation, and effective public health safeguards in developing traditional medicine while preserving valuable indigenous medical knowledge.
The Ogun State delegation expressed appreciation for the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board's hospitality and willingness to share valuable institutional experience. The delegation acquired knowledge that will be useful in strengthening the regulatory activities of the Ogun Board and assured the host institution that the lessons learned will be put into practice. The engagement is expected to translate into sustained cooperation between the two states.
Key points
- The Lagos and Ogun state governments are collaborating to regulate traditional medicine and promote safe healthcare practices.
- The Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board has registered 9,645 active traditional medicine practitioners and introduced initiatives to improve professional standards and regulatory oversight.
- The proposed collaboration aims to create opportunities for both institutions to exchange regulatory expertise and promote a more organized traditional medicine sector.
