The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Shanghai Haiqi Industrial Company Limited of China to establish Nigeria’s first sustainable insulin manufacturing facility. 
 
The agreement, yesterday, in Abuja by the Director General of NBRDA, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, and the General Manager of Shanghai Haiqi, Bokai Zhai, was witnessed by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji.
 
This milestone is expected to significantly reduce the country’s dependence on imported insulin, which has long been a burden for millions of Nigerians living with diabetes, while improving access to affordable and high-quality insulin.
 
Speaking at the ceremony, Nnaji commended NBRDA’s leadership for driving the initiative, calling it a significant landmark that aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises innovation, healthcare security, and economic diversification.

He said: “For decades, diabetic patients have depended on imported insulin, often at high cost and with limited availability. With this agreement, Nigeria is stepping into an era of health security, job creation, and industrial innovation. 
 
“Beyond saving the nation up to $1 billion in imports every year, this initiative promises hope to every Nigerian family affected by diabetes, while positioning our nation as a hub for biotechnology innovation in Africa,” he said. On his part, Mustapha described the agreement as a turning point for the health sector and for biotechnology advancement in Nigeria.
 
“This is a transformative opportunity. For the first time, Nigeria will have standardised, locally produced insulin, ensuring affordability and quality not only for our citizens but for Africa. This marks the beginning of a new chapter in our biotechnology journey, where research is converted into real solutions for Nigerians,” Mustapha stated.