Dr. Stella Chinyelu Okoli, founder and group managing director of Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, is set to unveil a N35 billion Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) manufacturing facility in Sagamu, Ogun State.
Dr. Okoli’s journey is one deeply rooted in the enterprising spirit of Nnewi, Anambra state, often referred to as the “Japan of Africa” for its robust manufacturing culture.
As a daughter of Anambra, she has not only upheld but also elevated the town’s proud tradition of innovation and industrial excellence. With over four decades of business leadership, she has transformed Emzor from a small wholesale pharmacy into a leading pharmaceutical giant with a continental footprint.
The upcoming Sagamu API plant – reportedly valued at N35 billion – is a testament to her belief in homegrown solutions and her refusal to be limited by systemic challenge.
Reacting to the development, Governor Charles Soludo congratulated Dr. Okoli for carving a niche for herself in the pharmaceutical industry, while also urging her to remember her roots while investing.
“Once again, our own daughter, proud daughter of Anambra state, has achieved another feat. She has once again proved her worth – the very entreprenual spirit for which Anambra, and Nnewi people in particular are known. We say congratulations to her.
Law Mefor, further told the Emzor boss that she still has opportunities to invest in Anambra state.
“This administration has what we call the Anambra Mixed-Use Industrial City (AMIC). Our daughter, the Emzor boss, has a space there to build a branch of what she is building in Ogun state.
“AMIC is a flagship infrastructure project in Anambra state, designed to accelerate economic development by creating a hub for both small and large industries. It focuses on developing critical infrastructure like access roads, gas pipelines, and power in a single location to attract and support various businesses. “The AMIC aims to transform Anambra state into an industrial powerhouse by fostering a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. The city extends from Ogboji, Akpu, and Ufuma to Ekwulobia, providing space for various businesses and investment proposals.
“The project prioritizes developing industrial infrastructure, including access roads, gas pipelines, and power, in a concentrated area. It is expected to generate jobs and drive economic growth within Anambra state. In essence, the AMIC is a strategic initiative to attract investment, support industrial growth, and create a more robust and competitive economic landscape in Anambra.
“What we’re saying in essence is that our daughter, Dr. Stella Okoli, has enough space there to build more than 20 times what she has currently built in Shagamu, Ogun state. Every enabler is there on ground for any industry to thrive. So, she should extend olive branch to her state; we deserve it.”
