Emzor announces ₦1bn fund to combat drug abuse

Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited has announced plans to establish a one-billion-naira fund to combat the problem of drug abuse, especially among young people.

The initiative was unveiled during the company’s annual Thanksgiving and 40th Anniversary Dinner in Lagos, with the Founder and Group Managing Director, Dr Stella Okoli, stressing the urgency of tackling the issue head-on.

Okoli, a seasoned entrepreneur and industrialist, expressed deep concern about the increasing menace of drug abuse, which she described as a major threat to the future of Nigeria’s youth.

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“The menace of drug abuse is becoming a serious problem for our youths and society. The situation is so bad today that we can no longer fold our arms and watch the future go to waste,” she stated.

She explained that the Emzor Wellness Foundation Anti-Drug Abuse Fund will provide essential support for the care and rehabilitation of drug abuse victims across the country.

Beyond addressing the issue of drug abuse, the pharmaceutical boss revealed plans to inspire young people through the launch of the Dr Stella Okoli Prize for Entrepreneurship.

She explained that the annual award will recognise female founders under 40 who demonstrate innovation and resilience in building their businesses.

“While we are making critical interventions towards ensuring a better future for our youths, it is equally important that we give them the motivation and inspiration they need to pursue their dreams and write their own success stories,” Okoli added.

Reflecting on Emzor’s journey, Dr Okoli expressed gratitude for the company’s achievements over the past 40 years. What began as a small venture in 1984 with the introduction of Emzor Paracetamol, a household name today, has grown into a thriving business with over 200 products approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).

She highlighted Emzor’s state-of-the-art factory in Sagamu, Ogun State, which houses one of Africa’s first Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) plants. The facility, spanning over 60 hectares, aims to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported raw materials for drug production.

“As they say, life begins at 40! So for us at Emzor, we have only just begun. Emzor has come to stay!” she declared.
Okoli, a recipient of the National Honour of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), assured Nigerians that the company is committed to building a global brand that ensures healthcare security and delivers “unlimited wellness” across the continent.

She added, “We see a future of healthcare security for our nation where unlimited wellness is available to all and affordable by all.”