The National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency (NBRDA) is considering the production of insulin and antiretroviral drugs for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

The director-general of NBRDA, Abdullahi Mustapha, said this in Abuja on Monday.

He disclosed that the agency’s collaboration with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology facilitated the availability of the technology of insulin. This peptide hormone helps to maintain blood sugar levels within a healthy range.

Mr Mustapha said that with the depth of the agency’s research and the agreement with a partner company, production of some drugs and vaccines shall subsequently commence.

He added, “The drugs we want to start producing will fill the gap for HIV drugs that are not readily available in the country due to the withdrawal of support.

“So, we want to see how we can fill the gap; we have collaborations. We are working with our partner company to start producing antiretroviral drugs for HIV, and we are going to do it here in NBRDA.”

According to him, the agency has earmarked areas where start-ups will grow.

Mr Mustapha said NBRDA’s focus under his stewardship is to complement the government’s policy to ensure that there are start-ups for the industrialisation of the country.

He stressed that the industrialisation of Nigeria was an idea that should be encouraged from all quarters.

Mr Mustapha disclosed that upon the arrival of the necessary documents, they intend to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with a partner company that would kick-start the insulin production.

He explained, “Hopefully, in the next two years, we will definitely have something on the table.

“That is our target, meaning that we have started the implementation of research, and we encourage other people to come forward to help drive the industrialisation process of our country.” 

(NAN)