Codix Pharma Ltd is set to inaugurate Codix Bio Ltd, Nigeria’s first large-scale facility for the local production of rapid diagnostic test kits, in Sagamu, Ogun State. This facility, only the second of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, aims to reduce Africa’s dependence on imported medical diagnostics and enhance regional health self-reliance. The plant is scheduled to commence operations in May 2025 and will manufacture rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits for diseases such as malaria, HIV, and hepatitis B and C.

Mary Ogangwu, Chief Operating Officer of Codix Pharma, described the project as a game-changer for the continent’s healthcare sector, emphasizing that it represents a local solution to a continental problem. Founded in 2008, Codix Pharma initially focused on pharmaceuticals for diabetes and cardiovascular conditions but strategically shifted to diagnostics to address the need for accessible and accurate diagnostic tools. This move follows the unveiling of Colexa Biosensor in December 2023, sub-Saharan Africa’s first factory for producing blood glucose meters and strips.

Codix Bio is committed to meeting WHO prequalification standards and US FDA regulations, with a focus on quality, safety, and efficacy. Olanrewaju Balaja, General Manager of Plant Operations at Codix Bio Ltd, highlighted the facility's compliance with ISO 13485 standards and WHO’s Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). The facility has completed design, construction, and utility installation phases, and is undergoing final qualification and validation.

The development aligns with the World Health Organisation’s Local Production Forum, advocating for increased local manufacturing capacity in low- and middle-income countries. Until now, virtually all rapid test kits used in Africa have been imported, making African countries vulnerable to supply chain disruptions and high costs. Codix Bio’s test kits are engineered for fast, reliable, and cost-effective testing, enabling frontline health workers to diagnose and initiate treatment without delay.

The launch is supported by the Nigerian government’s health sector reform agenda, including the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp), and an Executive Order exempting pharmaceutical equipment from tariffs. The national target is to meet 70 per cent of domestic demand through local pharmaceutical production by 2030 and capture 15 per cent of Africa’s pharmaceutical market share. Codix Bio is positioned to contribute significantly to this target.

At the launch of Codix Bio, Mary Ogangwu emphasized the importance of local production, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of relying on imported medical supplies. She noted that Codix Pharma has partnered with Olabisi Onabanjo University to train students in biosensors and nanotechnology to build local capacity, with about 138 students enrolled in the course. While some critical components are still being imported, plans are in place to localize more inputs.

Ogangwu praised the Federal Government’s support for local pharmaceutical manufacturing. Olanrewaju Balaja assured the public that the company adheres to global standards for quality assurance and efficacy. Kingsley Aguoru, Chief Operating Officer at Colexa Biosensor, added that local manufacturing has broader socio-economic benefits, including job creation and retention of capital. Codix Pharma’s efforts align with the World Health Organization’s vision to boost equitable access to quality health technologies through local production and technology transfer.