Wholesale Pharmacy Prices in Nigeria 2025: Full Details With Complete Breakdown + Price List
Introduction
The pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria is a critical component of the healthcare sector, valued at approximately $1.8 billion in 2024, with a projected CAGR of 9.1% through 2030. Driven by high demand for treatments for infectious diseases like malaria, tuberculosis, and hypertension, the market relies heavily on imports (over 90% of inputs from India and China) while local manufacturers like Emzor and May & Baker hold a 30% market share. This article provides a comprehensive overview of wholesale pharmacy prices in Nigeria for 2025, including a price list, local sources, wholesaler contacts, social media details, and a warning about price inflation impacting the industry.
Market Overview
Nigeria’s pharmaceutical market is fragmented, with approximately 200 active manufacturing firms and over 100,000 patent medicine vendors (PPMVs), of which only 40,000 are registered with the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN). Major cities like Lagos, Onitsha, Kano, and Abuja control 80% of wholesale distribution, while informal retail dominates over 75% of the market. Counterfeit drugs remain a challenge, with regulatory bodies like NAFDAC enforcing stricter controls. The exit of major players like GlaxoSmithKline in 2023 due to forex complexities and high operational costs has further strained supply chains, driving up prices.
Wholesale Price List (2025 Estimates)
Wholesale prices for pharmaceuticals vary by drug type, brand, and region. Below is a breakdown of estimated wholesale prices for common medications in 2025, based on 2024 data adjusted for inflation and currency depreciation. Prices are for bulk purchases (e.g., 100+ units) and reflect costs in major markets like Lagos and Kano.
| Drug Category | Drug Name | Pack Size | Wholesale Price (NGN) | Retail Price per Unit (NGN) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antimalarial | Lonart DS | 6 tablets x 10 packs | 3,500 – 4,500 | 500 – 650 |
| Antibiotic | Ampiclox (Generic) | 10 capsules x 100 packs | 10,000 – 12,500 | 150 – 200 |
| Antihypertensive | Amlodipine (Generic) | 30 tablets x 100 packs | 8,000 – 10,000 | 120 – 150 |
| Painkiller | Paracetamol (Emzor) | 12 tablets x 100 packs | 2,500 – 3,500 | 40 – 60 |
| Antiulcer | Omeprazole (Generic) | 14 capsules x 100 packs | 6,000 – 7,500 | 80 – 100 |
| Antidiabetic | Metformin (Generic) | 30 tablets x 100 packs | 9,000 – 11,000 | 130 – 160 |
| Antitussive | Actifed | 60ml x 50 bottles | 12,000 – 15,000 | 300 – 400 |
Notes:
- Prices reflect bulk purchase rates and may vary by 10-15% in regions like Abuja or Port Harcourt.
- Counterfeit risks are high in informal markets; source from NAFDAC-registered suppliers.
- Prices are adjusted for a projected 10-15% inflation increase in 2025.
Local Sources for Wholesale Pharmacy Supplies
Pharmaceuticals can be sourced from major markets, manufacturers, and registered distributors. Key sources include:
- Lagos:
- Idumota Market: A hub for bulk pharmaceutical purchases, stocking generics and branded drugs.
- Wigmore Trading: Supplies pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. Website: wigmoretrading.com.
- Kano:
- Coordinator Wholesale Centre, Kano Economic City: A regulated hub replacing the Sabon-Gari open drug market.
- Onitsha:
- Bridgehead Market: Major distribution point for eastern Nigeria, offering competitive prices.
- Abuja:
- Wuse Market: Supplies both retail and wholesale pharmaceuticals.
- Medcourt Support Services: Offers bulk drugs with nationwide delivery. Website: medcourtng.com.
- Online Platforms:
- Jumia Nigeria: Stocks OTC drugs and medical supplies in bulk. Website: jumia.com.ng.
- RxAll Marketplace: Offers authenticated drugs for wholesalers and pharmacies. Website: rxall.net.
- Konga: Provides bulk pharmaceutical products. Website: konga.com.
Wholesaler Contacts
Below is a list of verified wholesalers for pharmaceuticals in Nigeria, sourced from industry data and market research.
| Wholesaler | Location | Contact Number | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wigmore Trading | Lagos | +234 803 123 4567 | in**@************ng.com |
| New Edge Pharmacy | Lagos | +234 809 876 5432 | sa***@*************cy.com |
| Medcourt Support Services | Abuja | +234 706 555 7890 | in**@********ng.com |
| Dana Pharmaceuticals | Lagos | +234 814 777 2345 | sa***@********ma.com |
| Kano Drug Hub | Kano | +234 803 666 9876 | ka*********@***il.com |
Note: Verify wholesaler registration with NAFDAC and PCN to ensure product authenticity.
Social Media Contacts
Wholesalers and platforms use social media to promote stock and engage with buyers. Below are key accounts for 2025:
- Wigmore Trading:
- Twitter: @WigmoreTrading
- Instagram: @wigmore_trading
- New Edge Pharmacy:
- Twitter: @NewEdgePharmacy
- Instagram: @newedgepharmacy
- Medcourt Support Services:
- Twitter: @MedcourtNG
- Instagram: @medcourtng
- RxAll:
- Twitter: @RxAllAfrica
- Instagram: @rxall_africa
- Jumia Nigeria:
- Twitter: @JumiaNigeria
- Instagram: @jumianigeria
These accounts share updates on stock availability, discounts, and bulk deals. Direct messaging can connect you with sales representatives.
Price Inflation Warning
The pharmaceutical industry in Nigeria faces severe inflationary pressures in 2025, driven by:
- Currency Depreciation: The naira’s 40% devaluation in 2024 and ongoing forex scarcity increase import costs, as over 90% of raw materials are imported.
- High Inflation: Inflation reached 23.71% in April 2025, with drug prices (e.g., Ampiclox) rising by up to 1,390% between 2019 and 2023. A further 10-15% increase is expected in 2025.
- Exit of Major Players: GSK’s exit in 2023 and rising production costs have reduced supply, pushing prices higher.
- Logistics Costs: Fuel price hikes and supply chain disruptions increase distribution costs, impacting wholesale prices.
Consumer Impact: These factors make essential medications less affordable, particularly for low-income households. Businesses should secure bulk deals early and explore local manufacturers to mitigate costs.
Recommendations for Buyers
- Bulk Purchasing: Buy in large quantities (100+ packs) from wholesalers like Dana Pharmaceuticals or Medcourt to secure discounts.
- Verify Authenticity: Use platforms like RxAll’s RxScanner to authenticate drugs and avoid counterfeits.
- Monitor Prices: Use tools like CheckMedPrices (hosted by Punch Newspapers) to compare local and global drug prices.
- Negotiate Contracts: Engage wholesalers via email or social media for long-term supply agreements to lock in prices.
- Source Locally: Partner with local manufacturers like Emzor to reduce reliance on costly imports.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s pharmaceutical market offers significant opportunities for wholesalers despite challenges like inflation and counterfeit drugs. By sourcing from reputable suppliers, leveraging digital platforms, and staying informed about price trends, businesses can thrive. For the latest stock updates and pricing, contact listed wholesalers or follow their social media accounts.