News
Naira Forecasted to Depreciate to N1,993/USD by 2028, Threatening Nigeria’s Medical Device Market
The Naira is projected to depreciate to N1,993 per US dollar by 2028, according to a new report by BMI Research, a subsidiary of Fitch Solutions.
This forecast highlights the growing challenges Nigeria faces in importing critical medical supplies due to the weakening of its currency and ongoing structural issues within the healthcare system.
The report, titled “Weak Naira and Structural Challenges to Constrain Nigeria’s Medical Devices Market Growth”, indicates that the Naira’s depreciation will significantly affect Nigeria’s medical device sector.
With over 95% of medical devices in the country imported, the weakened Naira will increase import costs and erode the purchasing power of both healthcare providers and patients, especially in a public health sector that is already underfunded.
BMI’s projection sees the Naira falling from its current value of about N1,700 to N1,993 by 2028. Although this marks a relatively modest depreciation, the report suggests that the weakening currency will continue to drive up the cost of medical devices, particularly high-cost products like diagnostics, orthopaedics, and dental equipment.
While the depreciation poses a serious challenge to the medical sector, there is some optimism for local manufacturers. A weaker Naira could make domestically produced medical devices more competitive, potentially stimulating growth in that segment.
Despite the forecasted depreciation, the report predicts a gradual economic rebound, though the medical device market will continue to face operational and demand constraints in the short term.
News
FG Extends NYSC Orientation Camp From 3 to 6 Weeks
The Federal Government has announced an extension of the NYSC programme. It can be noted that the NYSC camp orientation is usually for three weeks before the youths go out to gain experience, employment, and serve the country for one year.
However, the FG announced that the passing-out parade from camp will be cancelled, and corps members will now spend six weeks in camp instead of three weeks.
“The first two weeks speak to laying a foundation on civic responsibility. The next two weeks will look at career mapping, basic accounting literacy skills, business planning and access to finance. The final two weeks, we intend to have focused corps-stream-specific training aligned with the corps member’s designated stream based on his choice, academic background and skills profile.”
News
Is Lagos Sinking? Residents Raise Concerns as Flooding Worsens
With the rainy season in Nigeria, many are wondering if the increase in flooding has now become the new normal. Lots of videos, clips, and complaints have literally flooded online, showing how badly roads, homes, and other places have been affected.
We were used to hearing about the rise of water on the Island since it is literally surrounded by water, but now floods are being spotted on the Mainland as well.
We may not know exactly why this is happening, but one thing is certain—we urgently need a lasting solution.
News
Federal Government Clarifies Position on Proposed Tax Recommendations
The federal government reacted to claims stating that the new tax rules will be imposed on telecommunications and petroleum products for Nigerians.
The FG released a statement to explain the process and stated that there is no intention to place taxes on telecom and petroleum products and services.
“Those recommendations do not amount to government policy and are not binding on Nigeria. Decisions on tax matters are taken through established constitutional and legislative processes and are guided by national priorities and prevailing economic realities.”
