Abiodun Launches Nigeria’s First Rapid Diagnostic Test Plant 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 (RDT) manufacturing plant, which is also the second such facility in Sub-Saharan Africa.

CODIX BIO Limited, an In-Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) facility, sits alongside the Sagamu Expressway. This plant specializes in producing test kits for conditions such as HIV, Malaria, and both Hepatitis B and 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 facility’s capability to generate approximately 147 million test kits each year, it signifies the beginning of a new chapter in biomedical advancement within the nation.

Today marks the beginning of an extraordinary era for Nigeria’s healthcare system as we officially inaugurate CODIX BIO Limited. This signifies a strong statement that Nigeria is committed to enhancing its public health facilities and drastically decreasing reliance on foreign diagnostic equipment.

“We are grateful that this initiative aligns with President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He is dedicated to implementing reforms aimed at developing the healthcare sector via local manufacturers to decrease imports,” he stated.

Governor Abiodun further stated that more than 90% of the diagnostic kits utilized across Africa are imported, primarily from Europe, Asia, and North America, based on a WHO report released in 2023. He highlighted that these testing kits act as a pivotal resource for early identification and function as an essential device for efficient disease control.

He stated that the investment from CODIX BIO Limited demonstrates the potential of his administration’s economic strategy, noting that this move will not only aid in conserving valuable foreign currency for the nation but also contribute to job creation, enhancing industrial capabilities, providing more employment opportunities, and improving healthcare services.

Prof. Ali Pate Muhammad, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for significantly improving infrastructure throughout the state, noting that the state administration has discovered an effective way to align talents with industrial development. He stated this alignment will drive progress in medical production within the region.

Your Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, I must commend what I’ve observed regarding industrial development, integration, 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 heard about it, I believe you have demonstrated remarkable leadership in this area. I want to express my appreciation for your efforts and those of your team.

“I trust that other states, including mine, can gain some insights from your efforts to industrialize Ogun State,” he stated.

Additionally, during his address, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for the successful improvements made at the Gateway International Airport under his leadership. He also acknowledged the governor’s efforts in fostering a conducive atmosphere for businesses and attracting investments within the state.

Dr. Alausa tasked CODIX BIO Limited with exploring how they could use their facility as an educational hub for future biomedical engineers, lab technicians, pharmacists, and quality assurance specialists. This initiative aims to foster stronger collaborations between the company and academic institutions like universities, polytechnics, and research organizations. The objective is twofold: enhancing their own talent pool 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 has been crafted to become one of the biggest and most sophisticated plants across the African landscape. He further noted that the firm’s ambition extends beyond just serving Nigeria; they aim to cater to the needs of both the ECOWAS zone and all of Africa as well.

“In Geneva, the factory named CODIX BIO has been announced as the initial 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, the factory will fall under the purview of WHO and its partner organizations for providing technical support,” he highlighted.

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

).