Fidelis Ayebae’s Fidson Takes Nigeria’s Healthcare Story Global

Fidson Healthcare Plc, founded by Fidelis Ayebae, has been chosen to manufacture a generic version of Roche's influenza antiviral drug, baloxavir marboxil. This prestigious deal is part of a program supported by the Medicines Patent Pool, placing Ayebae's company among a select group of global manufacturers. Ayebae's journey to this achievement began with an unlikely combination of skills.

He earned a Higher National Diploma in Civil Engineering in 1976, followed by an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration from the University of Lagos. After gaining experience at Citibank, he founded Fidson in 1995. Fidson's technical expertise is evident in the company's achievements. It became the first West African manufacturer of HIV antiretroviral drugs, as well as proton pump inhibitors and complex infusion formats.

These accomplishments have established Fidson as a credible global player. The company also holds the distinction of being the first Nigerian pharmaceutical firm to surpass N100 billion in revenue, reaching close to N119 billion. This remarkable growth is the result of years of reinvestment in facilities, regulatory systems, and personnel.

Fidson's international partnerships have similarly bolstered its credibility. Collaborations with Japan’s Ohara Pharmaceutical Company and three Chinese consortiums on an HIV-focused manufacturing hub in Lekki Free Trade Zone have further expanded its track record, making it a trusted partner in the eyes of regulators. Under the Roche arrangement, Fidson will receive the necessary technical information and reference materials to navigate the complex regulatory approval process.

The ultimate goal is to make the drug accessible in eligible markets at a lower cost. Ayebae's success has been recognized with the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy's Lifetime Achievement Award in 2025. Remarkably, he was the youngest person to receive this honor, and he was also the first non-pharmacist admitted into the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria's Hall of Honorary Membership.