The Federal Government of Nigeria is intensifying efforts to promote local manufacturing of rapid diagnostic test (RDT) kits for malaria, tuberculosis (TB), and other infectious diseases, marking a major stride toward healthcare sovereignty and reduced dependence on imports.
Through strategic partnerships and investments by agencies such as the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), the government is supporting world-class facilities capable of producing hundreds of millions of high-quality test kits annually. This initiative aligns with broader goals to achieve significant local content in essential healthcare products and strengthen disease surveillance and management across the country.
A flagship project is the NASENI-Troment Biotechnologies factory, designed to manufacture up to 600 million diagnostic kits per year under the N-CheckUP brand. These include rapid tests for malaria, TB, HIV, hepatitis B and C, typhoid, syphilis, and other critical conditions. The facility, described as Africa’s first fully localized RDT manufacturing plant, aims to meet approximately 80% of Nigeria’s diagnostic needs while opening export opportunities across the continent.
Another key player, Codix Bio, is ramping up production of millions of RDT kits for HIV, malaria, and TB, with 70% local content already achieved and plans to reach full localization in the coming years. This move addresses supply gaps and enhances access to affordable, reliable testing, especially in remote communities.
These efforts are supported by collaborations with international partners and align with the Renewed Hope Agenda’s focus on industrialization, innovation, and self-sufficiency in critical sectors.
Quote from a Federal Government Spokesperson / NASENI Leadership:
“This facility represents a bold step toward healthcare sovereignty. By producing world-class diagnostic solutions in Africa, for Africa, we are not only saving lives but also building a resilient economy.”
The Federal Government calls on stakeholders, including the private sector, development partners, and state governments, to support this transformative push for local production and universal access to quality diagnostics.