Emzor Pharmaceuticals, a leading name in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, has announced that its $23 million Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) production facility will commence local production in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The milestone marks a significant leap forward for Nigeria’s pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on imported APIs and strengthen healthcare delivery.
The executive director general, duties, HR & finance, Emzor, Uzoma Ezeoke while speaking during a media tour of the company’s facilities in Ogun state on Thursday, provided insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with local API production.
“This is the first time authorities will be licensing a project of this scale. There will be a learning curve, but we have strong government support, including backing from the minister of Health and the presidency,” Ezeoke stated.
Cost considerations are also paramount, with inflation and foreign exchange volatility impacting production expenses. However, Emzor is determined to mitigate the financial burden on consumers. “We are absorbing as many costs as possible to keep medicines affordable. We are not a charity, but access to quality medicine should not be a privilege. We will continue to innovate and prioritise the well-being of our people,” Ezeoke emphasised.
On strengthening market vigilance against counterfeits, the executive director general said counterfeit and substandard drugs pose a major threat to public health, and Emzor is tackling the issue with rigorous supply chain monitoring and strong distributor relationships. “We work closely with major distributors, some of whom have been with us for decades. This deep-rooted trust ensures accountability and helps us swiftly address any supply chain gaps,” Ezeoke stated.
She highlighted that counterfeiters thrive in supply shortages, making it essential for Emzor to maintain steady production and distribution. “Vigilance is crucial. By keeping our supply chain stable, we prevent bad actors from filling the void with substandard products,” she added.
The pharmaceutical industry is facing economic pressures, with Nigeria’s exchange rate tripling recently, directly impacting production costs. However, Emzor has resisted passing the full burden onto consumers. “Prices have risen, but not in proportion to the exchange rate. We have absorbed much of the cost increases, but for how long we can continue is uncertain,” Ezeoke admitted.
She pointed to recent government duty and levy adjustments on local manufacturing inputs as a potential relief measure. However, delays in implementation have stalled expected benefits. “These fiscal policies are crucial, but they weren’t officially gazetted until late last year. We are still waiting for them to take effect,” she noted.
Despite economic headwinds, Emzor remains steadfast in its mission to produce essential medicines in Nigeria and expand across Africa. “Nigeria has over 200 million people. Our focus remains ensuring Nigerians have access to the same high-quality drugs as the rest of Africa,” Ezeoke said.
She acknowledged the challenges of energy costs, supply chain disruptions, and talent drain, but emphasised Emzor’s resilience: “We don’t ask why we can’t succeed; we ask how we can. We are not a charity, but we are committed to overcoming systemic challenges that affect healthcare affordability and accessibility.”
In her opening remarks, the group managing director and founder of Emzor, Dr. Stella Okoli, stressed the importance of government support for local drug manufacturers. “Government should encourage local drug manufacturers because we must have local industries thriving in Nigeria,” she said.
She expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential. “Nigeria is a great place. No matter what happens, we remain a nation of leaders, honest people, and problem solvers. Emzor was built on this foundation, and we will continue to rise.”
