Gov Bassey Otu (2nd L) inspecting facilities at Calapharm.
By Anietie Akpan
The Cross River State-owned pharmaceutical company, Calapharm, will commence production in September this year.
The State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, according to the press release from his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill on Tuesday, inspected the project where the management there told him that this September date is however subject to the anticipated visit from NAFDAC for accreditation.
Following a guided tour of the Calapharm premises, located along President Goodluck Jonathan’s bypass in Calabar, Governor Otu expressed satisfaction with the quality of the machinery installed.
He said, “this will undoubtedly be one of the premier pharmaceutical companies in West Africa, with the laboratory ranking among the finest in Nigeria and all requisite facilities in place. We are awaiting NAFDAC’s inspection to commence production, as indicated by the company’s Technical Director, targeting September”.
Governor Otu acknowledged his predecessor, former governor Ben Ayade, whose foresight initiated the project, saying “presently, the cost of such an endeavour would be exorbitant due to inflation”.
Highlighting the added benefits of the company to the healthcare sector, Otu emphasised its contribution to the health insurance scheme being established in the state.
He further conveyed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the production of essential consumables for treatment and prevention through the company.
Moreover, the governor underscored the significance of the company in addressing the issue of youth unemployment in the state.
“Its impact on employment opportunities will be substantial, as the ripple effect is vast. With full-scale production, this facility will become a hub of activity, extending throughout the supply chain.
“The local production of materials used in this establishment will significantly bolster the regional economy,” Otu articulated.
Technical Director of Calapharm, Pharmacist Odunlami Ibidapo, revealed that the company meets international standards and is equipped with cutting-edge facilities, positioning it among the global elite.
Ibidapo detailed that Calapharm will specialise in manufacturing tablets, capsules, and liquids such as syrups, suspensions, mixtures, creams, and ointments.
He said, “we will also be introducing steroids, along with nasal drops, eye drops, and ear drops, showcasing a diverse product portfolio that will benefit the community, state, and society at large.
“Should NAFDAC conduct their inspection before September, our operations will commence sooner. With substantial investments made, we anticipate a successful outcome, delivering products that are competitively priced compared to those available elsewhere”.
Construction of Calapharm commenced in 2017 with attendant hiccups which delayed its operational take off and the governor had expressed his commitment to ensuring production in the company when he came into power in 2023.