AMA-Med's manufacturing OSD plant 2nd phase begins

AMA Medical Manufacturing has kicked off the construction of the second phase of its medicines manufacturing plant in Kaduna state, Nigeria. The groundbreaking ceremony, attended by the Chairman of AMA Medical Manufacturing, Abdulsalami Nasibi, was a significant step towards enhancing local manufacturing of medicines in the country. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa's David Alabi, Nasibi highlighted the importance of reducing Nigeria's dependence on imported healthcare products and striving for self-sufficiency and competitiveness on the global market. The new phase of the plant will focus on producing tablets, capsules, and other over-the-counter (OTC) products, in addition to IV fluids made using cutting-edge technologies such as polypropylene and form fill and seal. This move positions AMA Medical as a pioneering pharmaceutical manufacturer in West Africa. Nasibi emphasized the need for high-quality technology to minimize losses, reduce contamination, and boost productivity to meet the stringent standards set by regulatory bodies like NAFDAC and WHO. By leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement, the company aims to tap into a vast market of 1.9 billion people, ensuring a competitive edge over foreign manufacturers. Kaduna state's historical status as an industrial hub provides a supportive ecosystem for manufacturing facilities, and Nasibi expressed confidence in the government's commitment to facilitating the expansion of AMA Medical's operations. The Chairman also revealed the significant investments backing the project, including contributions from a family-led group, investors from the Middle East and Europe, and partnerships with pharmaceutical companies specialized in HIV treatment. The future phases of the plant will focus on manufacturing in-vitro diagnostics, vaccines, and anti-HIV drugs resistant to the virus. Sustainable energy sources are a key focus for the company, with plans to meet over 60-70% of the plant's power needs through alternative energy within a year. The ambitious plans laid out by AMA Medical Manufacturing signal a promising future for local medicine production in Nigeria, with the potential to drive economic growth and healthcare accessibility across the region.