The Federal Government has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company of China to begin local production of insulin, in a move aimed at cutting costs and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports.
The agreement was formalised in Abuja on September 10, 2025, by the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology through the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NABRDA) and representatives of the Chinese company.
Officials said the project will ensure cheaper and more reliable access to insulin for diabetic patients, while also creating jobs, transferring technology, and building local capacity in biotechnology.
NABRDA stated that production could commence within two years, alongside other pharmaceutical initiatives including the local manufacture of some antiretroviral drugs.
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The ministry described the partnership as part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to position Nigeria as a regional hub for biotechnology and healthcare innovation.
For years, diabetic patients have struggled with the high cost of insulin and frequent shortages due to Nigeria’s reliance on imports.
Government officials say the new partnership is expected to address these challenges and provide long-term stability in supply.