NARRATIVE REVIEW OF SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING DRUG DISTRIBUTION EFFICIENCY IN NIGERIA
ISAAC CHIJIOKE IBEZIM1* ABDULMUMINU ISAH1, RUTH OGOCHUKWU ONU1, CHIBUEZE ANOSIKE1, MAUREEN OGOCHUKWU AKUNNE1
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State.
Afr. J Pharm Res Dev; Volume 17(2): 214-220 ; 2025
ABSTRACT
This review examined the existing literatures on the supply chain management strategies highlighting the challenges and providing actionable insights to improving drug distribution efficiency in Nigeria. PubMed, Google scholar, Scopus and Web of science were searched for articles published between 2015 and 2025 using defined keywords such as supply chain, strategies, efficiency, drug and Boolean operators. The inclusion criteria for the review were articles published in English language and studies that focused on challenges and ways of improving drug distribution efficiency in Nigeria. The selection process involved multiple steps by three researchers. A structured data extraction frame work was developed to ensure consistency and accuracy in the review process. Two independent reviewers were involved in the data extraction process to minimize bias and improve accuracy. Any discrepancies were resolved through discussion or consultation with a third reviewer. A thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and trends across the selected studies. This analysis facilitated the identification of recurring themes and also identified the various gaps in the literatures. The key themes were structural and systemic challenges, strategic interventions, human resources and capacity development. Technology and public private partnership programs enhance supply chain management. However, rural disparities, counterfeit drugs and other challenges persist thereby necessitating targeted interventions.
Keywords: Supply chain, management, strategies, distribution, efficiency
Email of correspondence: Isaac.ibezim@unn.edu.ng;
https://doi.org/10.59493/ajopred/2025.2.10 ISSN: 0794-800X (print); 1596-2431 (online)