Codix gets nod to package HIV Rapid Diagnostic Tests kits
Colexa Biosensor Limited, subsidiary of Codix Group, has been licensed to package World Health Organisation (WHO) Prequalified Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kit in Nigeria.
This followed Change Notification approval to Colexa Biosensor, making the kits accessible for procurement by Nigeria and donors.
Sammy Ogunjimi, group managing director/chief executive officer of Codix Group, said ‘‘this approval is a leap forward for Nigeria’s healthcare ecosystem, enhancing access to high-quality In-Vitro Diagnostics (IVDs) and driving local production.’’
He said this is a big win for Nigeria, and Africa, as it is the first time a WHO PQ HIV Test Kit would be manufactured, assembled or packaged in Africa, and available to development partners.
Ogunjimi said the company would work with Federal Ministry of Health, NAFDAC and PVAC to make Nigeria a hub for quality diagnostic products in Africa.
Mary Ogangwu, chief operating officer of Codix Pharma, said the achievement was the result of huge effort from the organisation, foreign partners and local stakeholders.
Ogangwu lauded NAFDAC, PVAC, the ministry and others for providing technical support and encouragement.
“I also want to highlight the dedication and sacrifice of our team, led by the GMD, Mr. Sammy Ogunjimi. Their hard work and commitment have been the backbone of our success, and we stand strong, driven by their support and determination”.
This is historic for Africa, as the Standard Q HIV 1/2 Ab 3-Line Test becomes the first WHO Prequalified HIV RDT to secure Change Notification approval for packaging on the continent. It underscores the commitment of Codix Group to unlocking Nigeria’s healthcare value chain and contributing to the vision of the President.
Since its inauguration in 2023, Colexa has garnered global recognition from WHO, Global Fund, UNITAID, FIND, PEPFAR, and others.
