From Charity Nwakaudu, Abuja
The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, said Nigeria is taking a bold step to stop relying on importation of insulin but build a capacity to produce insulin locally.
Nnaji disclosed this at the signing of memorandum of agreement (MoA) on the sustainable insulin production in Nigeria between the Ministry, through its Agency, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA) and the Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Limited of China in Abuja yesterday.
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The minister said for decades, millions of Nigerians living with diabetes have depended on imported insulin, often at high cost and limited availability, hence the agreement between the Ministry through its agency, NABRDA, and the Chinese company, diabetic citizens in the country can now access their drugs locally at a low cost.
He emphasised that by localising the insulin production, it would not only address a critical health need, but also create jobs, build technical expertise and position Nigeria as a regional hub for medical biotechnology which is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
He applauded the initiative, saying that the Ministry was converting research into production. He added that the partnership underscores the deep friendship between the two countries and it demonstrates what can be achieved, when science, technology and international cooperation come together in service of humanity.
Director General, National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA) Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha said the project is to transform research into practical homegrown solutions that address national needs.
He also said the collaboration with the Chinese company reflects the country’s growing capacity to engage in high impact in biotechnology research development with a focus on healthcare innovation.
Earlier, General Manager, Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company, Bokai Shai said the purpose of the collaboration is to enhance production of insulin in the country and also promote the development of Nigerian pharmaceutical industries.
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