Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has flagged off the construction of the RIVEN Medical Industries project in Rumuosi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, describing the initiative as a major step toward positioning the state as a leading pharmaceutical manufacturing hub in Nigeria.
The project, a partnership between the Rivers State Government and Enbay Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, is expected to boost industrialisation, create jobs, and reduce the country’s dependence on imported pharmaceutical products.
Speaking during the foundation-laying ceremony on Wednesday, Governor Fubara expressed confidence that the first phase of the project would be completed and operational within three months.
He said his decision to support the investment was driven by the company’s commitment to delivering results within a short timeframe.
“I accepted to be part of this project because I saw the timeline for its execution. I am convinced that in the next three months, the first phase of this project will be visible to the good people of Rivers State,” the governor said.
Fubara noted that the project would stimulate economic growth by attracting investors, creating employment opportunities for youths, and encouraging the development of ancillary businesses around the facility.
He also called on the host community and other stakeholders to support the project, stressing that peace and cooperation remain essential for sustainable development.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Enbay Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Mr. Eniye Oweifie, described the project as a landmark investment that would transform Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector.
According to him, the facility will be developed in phases, beginning with pharmaceutical formulation and gelatin capsule production, which he said would be the first of its kind in Africa.
Oweifie added that the factory would also manufacture Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imports from India and China while strengthening the country’s pharmaceutical supply chain.
He commended the Rivers State Government for creating an enabling environment for private investment and acknowledged the support of the company’s technical partners from India, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary-designate in the Rivers State Ministry of Health and State Director of Medical Services, Dr. Vincent Wachukwu, said the project would enhance Nigeria’s healthcare system by improving local pharmaceutical manufacturing and ensuring medicine security.
He noted that increased local production would reduce dependence on imported drugs, promote innovation, and create employment opportunities for healthcare professionals and other skilled workers.
Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Dr. Gift Worlu, described the project as a significant investment in the state’s economic future and urged residents, traditional rulers and community leaders to support its successful implementation.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by government officials, healthcare professionals, traditional rulers, community leaders, industry stakeholders and international partners.
