Roche Diagnostics has officially launched a new legal entity in Nigeria, reaffirming its commitment to improving access to high-quality diagnostic solutions across Africa.

Speaking at the launch event in Lagos, Country Manager, Roche Diagnostics Africa, Roberto Taboada, underscored the urgency of strengthening healthcare systems across the continent. He noted that while Africa comprises 54 countries with a combined population exceeding 1.5 billion and a median age of 19.3, it bears 25 per cent of the global disease burden but has access to just one per cent of the world’s health budget and three per cent of the global health workforce.

According to Taboada, the new Nigerian entity will serve as a regional hub for Roche’s operations in Anglophone West Africa, enabling faster access to the company’s diagnostic innovations.

“This step will enhance our ability to engage directly with healthcare providers, streamline supply chains, and foster partnerships that will support Nigeria’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC),” he said.

Taboada also highlighted Nigeria’s strategic importance, describing it as a significant market with vast potential for healthcare innovation and investment.

Also speaking at the event, Jonathan Keytel, Director of Strategy & Innovation for Africa at Roche Diagnostics, described Nigeria as a critical partner in Roche’s mission to improve patient outcomes through cutting-edge diagnostics.

“The launch of this affiliate brings us closer to our partners and customers. It enables us to improve logistics, speed up turnaround times, and deliver earlier, more accurate diagnoses—leading to better outcomes and long-term cost savings for the healthcare system,” he said.

Keytel emphasised that Roche’s approach is centred on co-creating tailored solutions that address local needs. “What works in Europe or the U.S. may not be suitable here. Our aim is to build resilient health systems by collaborating directly with Nigerians to find homegrown solutions,” he added.

The development marks a major milestone in Roche’s ongoing strategy to expand its footprint in Africa and strengthen healthcare delivery across the region.