By joshua 
KOCCIMA HOSTS HERBAL PRACTITIONERS IN LOKOJA, PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR TRADITIONAL MEDICINE AS VIABLE ECONOMIC ALTERNATIVE
…Chamber President Dr. Akerejola Says Herbal Medicine Has Great Potency, Can Boost Healthcare and Economy
The Kogi State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, KOCCIMA, on Monday played host to the executives of herbal practitioners currently exhibiting their products at the Paparanda Square, Lokoja.
The meeting provided the KOCCIMA President, Dr. Demiloye Akerejola, the opportunity to drum support for herbal medicine and to reiterate its efficacy as a credible alternative to orthodox medicine.
Dr. Akerejola described herbal medicine as part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage that must be promoted, standardized and integrated into the mainstream health and economic sector.
“Herbal medicine is not alternative, it is original. Our forefathers depended on it for centuries and lived healthy lives. Today, we must reposition it with modern standards so it can compete globally,” the KOCCIMA President said.
“KOCCIMA will support herbal practitioners with the right platform, advocacy and linkages to markets. This sector has huge potential for job creation, export and healthcare delivery.”
He noted that with rising costs of orthodox drugs and increased global interest in natural remedies, herbal medicine presents Kogi State with an opportunity to tap into a multi-billion naira industry.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Herbal Practitioners, Mr. Adesida Adebayo, listed the benefits and efficacy of herbal medicine, stressing that it remains time-tested and effective.
“Before the advent of orthodox medicine, our forefathers lived on herbal medicine. It is a treatment that has no side effects when properly administered,” he stated.
“Herbal medicine boosts immunity, treats chronic ailments, improves overall wellness, and is more affordable and accessible to the common man.”
Mr. Adesida further noted that herbal products are plant-based, biodegradable, and aligned with nature, making them safer for long-term use. He solicited partnership with KOCCIMA for capacity building, product certification, standardization and market access.
“We are calling on KOCCIMA to partner with us. Help us package, brand and take our products to national and international markets. Our herbs can heal, and they can also grow the economy,” he appealed.
Dr. Akerejola assured the herbal practitioners of KOCCIMA’s commitment to promote their products during trade fairs, exhibitions, and through linkages with relevant government agencies and regulatory bodies like NAFDAC.
He added that the Chamber will also push for training on standardization, packaging and documentation to enable Kogi herbal products meet both local and export requirements.
The meeting ended with both parties agreeing to work together to rebrand herbal medicine in Kogi State as a health solution and an economic asset.