By Osaretin Osadebamwen
The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has said its locally manufactured rapid diagnostic test kits can now meet about 80 per cent of Nigeria’s healthcare needs, marking a significant milestone in the country’s drive towards medical self-sufficiency.
The Executive Vice Chairman of NASENI, Khalil Halilu disclosed this during an interview, explaining that the agency has moved beyond research and prototype development into full commercial production following a directive by President Bola Tinubu to commercialise government-backed innovations.
Halilu who spoke on Channels Tv said the shift is aimed at reducing import dependence, creating jobs and strengthening local manufacturing.
According to him, Nigeria previously relied on imports for about 90 per cent of its rapid diagnostic kits. However, investments in biotechnology and local production have enabled NASENI to establish a world-class manufacturing facility capable of supplying most of the country’s domestic requirements.
He revealed that the agency’s Ebola rapid diagnostic kit has been recognised by the World Health Organization (WHO), while the factory has also attained ISO certification, an indication that its products meet internationally accepted quality standards. He added that a delegation from Harvard University recently visited the facility to assess its production capacity.
The NASENI boss further stated that the agency has developed the capability to produce diagnostic kits for emerging diseases within 24 hours of obtaining laboratory samples. He described the achievement as a major lesson from the COVID-19 pandemic, when Nigeria and many countries struggled to access imported testing kits and personal protective equipment.
He maintained that the agency now manufactures its diagnostic kits entirely in Nigeria and described the development as a major step towards achieving biotechnology sovereignty.
Halilu said with local production at its peak, it will reduce pressure on foreign exchange while ensuring quicker responses to future disease outbreaks.
The agency expressed confidence that sustained government support and increased patronage of locally manufactured medical products would strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare system, improve national emergency preparedness and position the country as a regional hub for medical technology production.
