The federal government has restated its determination to strengthen access to essential controlled medicines for patients with legitimate medical needs.

It also expressed commitment to implementing a balanced, evidence-based and human-centred approach to drug control that integrates public health, security, prevention and treatment.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, gave the undertaken in an address delivered on his behalf by the Director, Food and Drug Services Department, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Mrs. Olufowobi-Yusuf Adeola, at the Maiden National Drug Use Summit held in Abuja

A statement signed by the Head of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Ado Bako, said the minister described drug use in Nigeria as a complex public health and development issue.