China Plans Africa's First Insulin Plant in Nigeria to Boost Medical Biotechnology

China is set to build Africa's first insulin production facility in Nigeria, marking a significant step to reduce the country's dependence on imported insulin and position it as a leading hub for medical biotechnology on the continent. This initiative is part of a broader deepening of economic and strategic ties between China and Nigeria, with Chinese Ambassador Yu Dunhai highlighting the partnership as a "comprehensive strategic partnership" across political, economic, and cultural domains. The rising incidence of diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa, projected to more than double to nearly 55 million cases by 2045, underscores the urgent need for local insulin production to lower treatment costs and expand access to life-saving medication, as only a small fraction of patients currently receive treatment. The deal aligns Nigeria with other African countries like Egypt and South Africa, which have recently started local insulin production, enhancing the continent's capacity to address noncommunicable diseases. Additionally, Nigeria is considering certifying China's C919 commercial jet, indicating broader Sino-Nigerian cooperation beyond healthcare. While Chinese investment remains substantial in Africa despite some cooling, concerns about debt sustainability persist among observers.