Sanwo-Olu Unveils First Lagos Disposable Syringe Factory

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday unveiled the first ever ultra-modern disposable syringe factory in Lagos by Transgreen Nigeria Limited, a leading manufacturer of medical consumables.

Commissioning the O-Care Disposable Syringe factory, designed to produce high-quality, sterile syringes that meet international standards, Sanwo-Olu described it as a critical step towards achieving Lagos State’s vision of becoming a leading hub for industrial innovation and excellence.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Mr Obafemi Hamzat emphasised the importance of promoting local manufacturing to create jobs, ensure a self-reliant healthcare system, and position Nigeria as a self-sufficient leader in medical device manufacturing.

Sanwo-Olu who said it was a pivotal step towards healthcare self-reliance, recalled the anxieties of the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasising how the new factory addresses the critical need for locally produced medical supplies. “This event, though, looks very small, but it’s extremely significant, not only for our state but for our country as a whole, as we take another bold step towards self-reliance in healthcare manufacturing,” he said.

“I commend TransGreen Nigeria Limited for its commitment to innovation and quality. The factory, equipped to produce various syringe sizes, including those crucial for vaccinations, represents more than just a manufacturing plant. It symbolises resilience and a commitment to excellence.

“It’s a symbol of innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence. By producing high-quality syringes locally to reduce our dependence on imports, we create jobs for our people.”

Sanwo-Olu tackled the pressing issue of power supply, outlining the state’s ambitious plans to generate 1,000 megawatts through decentralised power plants, ensuring reliable electricity for industries like the new syringe factory.

On her part, the first lady, Dr Ibijioke Sanwo-Olu said: “I am super, super excite.” she declared, highlighting the facility’s role in bolstering the state’s healthcare infrastructure and reducing dependence on unreliable imports.” She reassured residents of the government’s proactive response to the recent Diptheria outbreak, urging vigilance and vaccination.

Speaking, the representative of the Minister of Health and the National Coordinator, Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain, PVC, Dr Abdul Muktar, described the facility as the first of its kind in Lagos State, noting that it marks a significant milestone in the collective efforts to enhance healthcare in Nigeria.

The duo represented by Mrs Funke Falade recalled: “During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, he led the charge as the first Nigerian manufacturer of medical face masks under the Transgreen Nigeria Limited brand. This innovative product played a crucial role in safeguarding our nation when global medical nationalism threatened our access to essential supplies.”

“As the National Coordinator of the Presidential Initiative for Unlocking the Healthcare Value Chain (PVAC), I am particularly proud of this achievement. It aligns perfectly with our mission to strengthen Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and promote self-reliance in the production of essential medical supplies. This factory not only brings job opportunities and economic growth but also reinforces our commitment to building a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.”

In his welcome address, the Managing Director of Transgreen Nigeria Limited, Mr. Cyprian Orakpo, expressed his gratitude to the guests and acknowledged the support of the Lagos State Government, the Federal Government, and financial institutions in making the project a reality.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey to become a world-class manufacturer of medical consumables. We are proud to have taken this bold step towards self-sufficiency in medical device manufacturing, and we are committed to scaling up our operations to meet the healthcare needs of our nation.”

The O-Care Disposable Syringe factory is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and technology to ensure the production of high-quality syringes. The factory can produce millions of syringes per annum, which will not only meet the local demand but also contribute to exports.

Transgreen Nigeria Limited’s vision is to become a world-class manufacturer of medical consumables that will be the preferred choice of all stakeholders by 2032. The company’s mission is to elevate healthcare everywhere by providing quality medical products that meet international standards.

Orakpo appealed to the Lagos State Government to intervene in making Alakoso Avenue, the longest road in Amuwo Odofin Industrial cluster, motorable with good drains and street lights. The company has also appealed to the government to rid the roads of non-state actors who set up tolls within the industrial cluster.

Orakpo of TransGreen announced a donation of 20,000 disposable syringes s to the Lagos State government, a gesture of support for the state’s mission to elevate healthcare.

He highlighted the company’s commitment to medical security, ensuring preparedness for future emergencies.

With the commissioning of the O-Care Disposable Syringe factory, Transgreen Nigeria Limited has taken a significant step towards achieving its vision and contributing to the growth and development of Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by dignitaries from various sectors, including the First Lady of Lagos state, Dr Sanwo-Olu; the Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate; and representatives from the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) among others.