Emzor Pharmaceuticals has announced that its $23 million Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) production facility will begin operations in the fourth quarter of 2025. The move is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s pharmaceutical self-sufficiency by reducing reliance on imported APIs.
Speaking during a media tour of Emzor’s Ogun State facilities, Uzoma Ezeoke, the company’s executive director general in charge of duties, HR, and finance, acknowledged the challenges of local API production but highlighted strong government backing, including support from the Minister of Health and the presidency.
Cost pressures remain a concern, with inflation and foreign exchange volatility affecting production expenses. However, Emzor is determined to keep medicines affordable. “We are absorbing as many costs as possible. We are not a charity, but access to quality medicine should not be a privilege,” Ezeoke said.
On the issue of counterfeit drugs, she stressed that Emzor is tackling the problem through rigorous supply chain monitoring and strong distributor relationships. “Counterfeiters thrive in shortages. By maintaining a stable supply, we prevent substandard products from entering the market,” she added.
Despite rising production costs due to Nigeria’s fluctuating exchange rate, Emzor has refrained from passing the full burden onto consumers. Ezeoke noted that while government policies aimed at easing local manufacturing costs have been introduced, their delayed implementation has slowed expected benefits.
Emzor remains committed to ensuring access to high-quality medicine for Nigerians and expanding its presence across Africa. The company is also addressing broader industry challenges, including energy costs, supply chain disruptions, and talent drain.
Dr. Stella Okoli, Emzor’s founder and group managing director, underscored the need for government support. “We must have local industries thriving in Nigeria,” she said, expressing confidence in the country’s potential despite economic challenges.
