NBRDA, Chinese firm to build Nigeria’s first insulin plant

The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Ltd. of China to establish Nigeria’s first sustainable insulin manufacturing facility.

The agreement, signed on Wednesday in Abuja by the Director General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, and the General Manager of Shanghai Haiqi, Bokai Zhai, was witnessed by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

This milestone is expected to significantly reduce the country’s dependence on imported insulin, which has long been a burden for millions of Nigerians living with diabetes, and improve access to affordable, high-quality insulin.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Minister, Chief Uche Nnaji, commended NBRDA’s leadership for driving the initiative, calling it a significant landmark aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation, healthcare security, and economic diversification.

“For decades, diabetic patients have depended on imported insulin, often at high cost and with limited availability. With this agreement, Nigeria is stepping into an era of health security, job creation, and industrial innovation.

“Beyond saving the nation up to \$1 billion in imports every year, this initiative promises hope to every Nigerian family affected by diabetes, while positioning our nation as a hub for biotechnology innovation in Africa,” he said.

Director General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, underscored the agreement as a turning point for the health sector and for biotechnology advancement in Nigeria.

“This is a transformative opportunity. For the first time, Nigeria will have standardised, locally produced insulin, ensuring affordability and quality not only for our citizens but eventually for Africa.

“This marks the beginning of a new chapter in our biotechnology journey, where research is converted into real solutions for Nigerians,” Mustapha stated.

General Manager of Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Ltd., China, Bokai Zhai, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the project, noting its human and economic impact.

“This cooperation will reduce reliance on imported insulin, ensure accessibility and affordability for Nigerian families, and promote the growth of the local pharmaceutical industry through technology transfer, job creation, and capacity building,” Zhai said.

As the first insulin plant in Nigeria and among the few in Africa, the facility will enhance healthcare delivery, support industrial growth, and reduce pressure on foreign exchange. It also positions Nigeria to lead in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation across the continent.

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