
Society
August 29, 2025 by Oladapo Sofowora

Stella Okoli stands as a powerful testament to the strength and capability of women in a predominantly male-dominated industry. Her unwavering determination and resilience have paved the way for her remarkable journey in the pharmaceutical sector, where she has established herself as a formidable force. As the founder and CEO of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Okoli has transformed her vision into a reality, making significant contributions to the pharmaceutical landscape in Nigeria. Through her leadership, Emzor has emerged as a beacon of innovation and excellence, driving a pharmaceutical revolution that enhances healthcare nationwide.
From the inception of her company, Okoli harbored ambitious dreams and aspirations. Her commitment to fostering a medical revolution aimed at providing effective healthcare solutions has not only garnered her respect but has also placed Emzor at the forefront of the industry. What began as a personal passion has evolved into a thriving enterprise with aspirations of becoming Africa’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturer. This growth is underscored by the company’s latest initiative: a $23 million Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) facility in Sagamu, Ogun State. This transformational project is set to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported medications and fortify a resilient supply chain, benefiting not only Nigeria but also the broader African continent.
Read Also: Falz sparks marriage speculation with instagram post
The new plant, which will be the first dedicated API facility in sub-Saharan Africa, is designed to initially produce essential antimalarial inputs, with plans to later expand into the production of antiretrovirals for HIV/AIDS and other vital medicines that are critically needed across Africa. According to insiders, the facility is anticipated to commence operations in early 2026. This revised timeline follows a reassessment of the project’s original 2024 target, which faced challenges due to fiscal constraints and regulatory hurdles. Currently, over 90 percent of the civil works have been completed, with critical equipment already installed. The in-house research and development laboratory has successfully synthesized five antimalarial APIs, laying the groundwork for full-scale production.
Industry sources highlight the significant impact the facility is expected to have on local capacity, potentially enhancing the affordability and accessibility of essential medications. To ensure the success of this ambitious expansion, Okoli has sought collaboration with notable investors. A substantial loan of €13.85 million (approximately $16.21 million) from the European Investment Bank, along with partnerships with India’s Mangalam Drugs & Organics and the API for Africa initiative, are crucial for providing the necessary financing, technological advancements, and expertise required for this landmark project.
Through her innovative spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence, Stella Okoli is not only shaping the future of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries but also contributing to a healthier future for millions across the continent.