In a significant move to bolster Nigeria's pharmaceutical sector, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, and AMA Pharmaceutical Company (AMA-MED) have announced plans to establish a robust partnership focused on drug development and the commercialisation of academic research.
Building Bridges Between Academia and Industry
The collaboration initiative began when the Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Adamu Ahmed, visited the AMA-MED facility in Kaduna. The purpose of the initial visit was to discuss Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) placements for ABU students. However, Professor Ahmed was profoundly impressed by the company's advanced manufacturing capabilities.
The visit to the state-of-the-art facility, which utilizes advanced AFFS technology for producing high-quality intravenous fluids (IV fluids), revealed the potential for a deeper alliance. Following a tour, discussions quickly evolved from student placements to the strong need for collaboration on various aspects of pharmaceutical development.
Focus on Local Production and Cost Reduction
According to a statement issued by ABU's Director of Public Affairs, Awwalu Umar, this partnership is strategically timed. It aligns with the Executive Order signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2024 concerning raw materials for pharmaceutical production. The collaboration is expected to directly support the order's goals by increasing the local manufacture of essential healthcare products and, crucially, reducing production costs for the Nigerian market.
The partnership will specifically explore promoting the commercialisation of research outputs from ABU's Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and other related departments. This process was further consolidated during a recent return visit to ABU Zaria by the Founder of AMA Pharmaceutical Company, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa.
A Vision for Enhanced Competitiveness and Global Links
Vice-Chancellor Professor Adamu Ahmed has expressed strong confidence that the ABU and AMA-MED collaboration will ultimately enhance the competitiveness of local drug manufacturers. He emphasized that the university's current drive under his leadership is to build meaningful industry partnerships specifically for commercialising research.
This domestic initiative is complemented by the Vice-Chancellor's international engagements. His recent visits to the University of Glasgow and the University of Salford in the United Kingdom have opened new avenues for global research collaborations and industry linkages, creating a comprehensive strategy for innovation.
AMA-MED, founded in 2019 and based in Kaduna, is recognized as the largest pharmaceutical company in Northern Nigeria, pioneering advancements in medical manufacturing.
