The Managing Director of Colexa Biosensor Limited, Kingsley Aguoru, has called on the Federal Government to prioritise local pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing as a strategic pathway to achieving healthcare security, expanding job creation, and strengthening the economy.
Speaking during a recent interview on Arise Television, Aguoru said ongoing government efforts to strengthen the pharmaceutical value chain and support local manufacturers were encouraging, but stressed that deeper and more sustained commitment is needed for meaningful impact. He explained that the objective is not to eliminate imports entirely, but to build a balanced ecosystem where local production plays a dominant role in meeting national healthcare needs.
‘Manufacturing is the foundation of economic prosperity. It creates jobs, builds technical expertise, promotes innovation, and strengthens national self-sufficiency. Every industrialised nation built its wealth on manufacturing, and Nigeria cannot be an exception,’ he said.
Aguoru noted that no country operates without imports, but argued that Nigeria must adopt a clear and consistent strategy that gradually reduces dependence on foreign healthcare products while strengthening domestic capacity. He further stated that a stronger manufacturing base would create employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerian graduates in science, engineering and technology-related fields, while also helping to retain critical skills within the country.
According to him, policymakers must engage more closely with manufacturers and key stakeholders to evaluate existing interventions and address structural bottlenecks limiting sectoral growth.
Aguoru maintained that Nigeria already possesses the talent, market size and entrepreneurial capacity required to emerge as a major pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in Africa-provided the right enabling environment is sustained.
‘Manufacturing requires significant capital, patience, and resilience. The challenge is often perception rather than quality. Nigerian manufacturers can compete effectively when given the right support and opportunities,’ he said.
He warned that healthcare security cannot be achieved through importation alone, stressing the need for long-term investment in local capacity.
‘We must build local capacity, support local manufacturers, and create policies that encourage sustained investment. If we remain committed to that path, Nigeria can become more self-reliant, create jobs, strengthen its healthcare system, and secure a healthier future for its people,’ he added.