A delegation from ECOLAB, a leading manufacturer of biocides in West Africa, has announced its bold entry into the Nigerian market with the aim of combating hospital-acquired infections.
During an official visit to Pharmanews on Tuesday, the delegation, which included Mr Sylvester Manana, regulatory affairs manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Mr George Agyemang, managing director of Georita Healthcare Limited (the sole distributor of ECOLAB products in West Africa), and Mr Victor Anitche, infection control specialist, reaffirmed ECOLAB’s commitment to eradicating hospital-acquired infections across West Africa.
Manana explained that the visit was necessary to ensure compliance with the operational requirements of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
“We are here in Nigeria to ensure that our products meet NAFDAC’s requirements. Regulations are not static; they evolve over time. We have been in contact with NAFDAC, and we have shared documentation and are actively working to meet their standards,” he said.
Manana also provided insight into ECOLAB’s product range, which aims to set new standards for microbial disinfection in Nigeria. “We manufacture a variety of products, including disinfectants and biocides, which are classified as medical devices in many countries. These biocides are crucial in eliminating hospital-acquired infections caused by viruses or bacteria. Our products are produced in the United Kingdom, France, Turkey, and the United States, taking into account that individuals entering and leaving hospitals may carry different ailments. Hence, proper disinfection is essential. Our products help ensure a world free from disease-causing microbes,” he added.
Mr Agyemang, managing director of Georita Healthcare, emphasised that ECOLAB products have undergone successful trials and are prepared to compete with Nigerian products.
“We have conducted several trials and are confident in the effectiveness of our products, which meet international standards. Our range of disinfectants is truly a game-changer. We are focused on delivering quality rather than just competing.
“ECOLAB entered Africa through Ghana. However, given Nigeria’s larger population, any innovation that succeeds in Ghana is likely to find a place in Nigeria. We view Ghana as an integral part of our broader African strategy. We are committed to assisting Nigeria in the fight against hospital-acquired infections,” he said.
Regarding distribution, Agyemang noted that ECOLAB is partnering with a logistics company to ensure efficient distribution across Nigeria.
“Our distribution is managed through refrigerated containers and air-conditioned boxes to maintain the integrity of our products,” he added.
Highlighting the unique selling points of ECOLAB biocides, Agyemang stated, “Our products are essential in every village, clinic, and restaurant where bacteria may be present. They will help prevent the spread of microbes and reduce the need for antibiotics in Nigeria.”
