Abiodun Launches Nigeria's First Rapid Diagnostic Test Facility in Ogun – International Edition (English)

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has initiated the establishment of Nigeria's first large-scale rapid diagnostic testing (IVD) manufacturing plant, making it the second such facility in Sub-Saharan Africa.

CODIX BIO Limited, an In-vitro Diagnostic (IVD) facility situated along the Sagamu expressway, specializes in producing test kits for HIV, malaria, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

During his speech at the event on Friday, the Governor conveyed his joy regarding the significant progress made so far. He highlighted that with this newly established facility capable of producing approximately 147 million test kits each year, a new chapter has begun in the realm of biomedical advancement within the nation.

Today marks the beginning of a revolutionary era in Nigeria’s healthcare sector as we officially inaugurate CODIX BIO Limited. This signifies a strong statement that Nigeria is prepared to bolster its public health facilities and considerably decrease reliance on foreign diagnostic equipment.

“We appreciate that this initiative is indeed aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to reforms towards unlocking the healthcare value chain through local manufacturing firms to reduce importation,” he said.

Governor Abiodun added that over 90% of diagnostic kits used in Africa are being imported, mainly from Europe, Asia, and North America, according to a WHO report in 2023, noting that the test kits offer a game-changing tool in early detection and also serve as a desirable instrument for effective disease management.

He stated that the investment made by CODIX BIO Limited demonstrates significant confidence in his administration’s economic strategy. He further noted that this investment will aid the nation in conserving valuable foreign currency, generating job opportunities, developing industrial capabilities, fostering employment growth, and enhancing healthcare services.

The Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate Muhammad, commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for the massive turnaround in the area of infrastructure across the state, saying the state government has found the magic source to connect talent with industrialization, which he said would fuel growth in the area of medical manufacturing.

Your Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, I must commend what I've observed regarding industrial development, the integration efforts, and the ecological system being established in your state.

I arrived at the airport and, after observing the situation and considering all that I've been told about it, I believe you have demonstrated remarkable effective leadership in this area. I would like to express my appreciation for your efforts and those of your team.

"I trust that other states, including my own, can draw some insights from your efforts to industrialize Ogun State," he stated.

Additionally, Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, praised Governor Dapo Abiodun during his address for the successful improvements made at the Gateway International Airport under his administration. He also acknowledged the governor’s efforts in fostering a conducive business climate attractive to investors within the state.

Dr. Alausa tasked CODIX BIO Limited with exploring how they could utilize their facility as an educational hub for future biomedical engineers, lab technicians, pharmacists, and quality assurance specialists. This initiative promotes deeper collaboration between the company and academic institutions such as universities, polytechnics, and research organizations. The aim is to bolster their personnel resources while also contributing to the growth of the healthcare innovation sector.

During his previous comments, Mr. Sammy Ogunjimi, CEO of CODIX BIO Limited, mentioned that the facility is intended to become one of the biggest and most sophisticated plants in Africa. He further stated that the firm aims to cater not just to Nigeria but also to the ECOWAS area and the whole African continent.

"In Geneva, the factory called CODIX BIO has been announced as the inaugural facility chosen by the collaboration between WHO, SD Biosensor, and MPP through the WHO H-TAP initiative. This selection aims to bolster local production of rapid diagnostic test kits across Africa. As a result, this factory will fall under the purview of WHO and its collaborators for providing technical support," he pointed out.

Ogunjimi, acknowledging Governor of Ogun State for granting a 30% discount to CODIX, stated that the initiative would not have come into fruition without the supportive backing of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).

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