Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Geoffrey Nnaji, flanked by the management staff of Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Ltd. of China and officials of the ministry.
In a groundbreaking move to tackle diabetes in Nigeria, the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology has inked a pioneering Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with China’s Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Ltd. to establish the country’s first-ever insulin manufacturing facility.
This landmark partnership aims to transform healthcare access by producing insulin locally, reducing Nigeria’s dependence on costly imports.
Senior Special Adviser to the Minister, Dr. Robert Ngwu, announced the deal on Thursday in Abuja, hailing it as a historic milestone.
“This is Nigeria’s first insulin production agreement, and potentially Africa’s, marking a transformative leap toward affordable healthcare, industrial growth, and national health security,” Ngwu stated.
Spearheaded by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, through the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA), the agreement sets the stage for domestic insulin production to serve Nigeria’s population and potentially the broader African market.
“For too long, Nigerians with diabetes have faced high costs and supply shortages due to reliance on imported insulin,” Ngwu explained.
“This facility will break that cycle, ensuring affordability and availability.”
At the signing ceremony, Minister Nnaji underscored the project’s significance: “This is a beacon of hope for every Nigerian family touched by diabetes. It’s a bold stride toward a healthier, more innovative Nigeria.”
He emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes healthcare, innovation, and self-reliance as pillars of national progress.
The partnership also highlights the deepening collaboration between Nigeria and China.
“This agreement reflects how global cooperation can deliver solutions that uplift humanity,” Nnaji added, praising Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Ltd., a leading multinational in biotechnology and healthcare innovation, for its role in the venture.
