The Edo State government is currently in talks with Chinese Investors to establish a drug manufacturing firm in the State which is capable of supplying drugs to neighboring States and the African Region.
Speaking to newsmen in Benin City, pioneering Executive Secretary of Edo State Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency (DMA) Dr. Kenny Okojie said the establishment of the firm will be a PPP arrangement.
She said the State is in talks with investors who had shown interest in establishing a manufacturing firm that will be producing medicines in the State, adding that the production of the drugs will not be for the consumption of the State alone but for the neighboring States and African Region.
“We are discussing a PPP arrangement where the investors will build, establish and run the Company while the State provides an enabling environment and the right policies for the company to thrive in the State.
“This will give employment to the youths, train pharmacies, doctors and other healthcare givers. This will be a landmark project which hopefully will come into reality next year”, she concluded.
The special Adviser on Health Matters Dr. Andrew Iyamu said the Chinese Investors are willing to take charge of the warehouse at the medical store road and convert it to the manufacturing firm producing drugs.
He noted that the warehouse established by the late Samuel Ogbemudia is no longer functioning effectively but still has good machines which were vandalized during the EndSARS period.
“The Chinese Investors saw the machines and were happy and ready to take it over and ensure its effectiveness. They are ready to properly utilize it in the production of drugs and medicines which will be distributed to other states.
“Under the governor Monday Okpebholo led administration, the warehouse will be revitalized and make sure the State in collaboration with the investors utilizes it to produce drugs and medicines which will generate revenue for the State”.
The mandate of the DMA is to procure and organize the distribution of essential medicines to all health facilities including private health facilities, pharmacy to do business with Edo State.
