Fidson Healthcare Plc, a leading pharmaceutical company in Nigeria, has partnered with Liddie BE Limited, a prominent clinical research organization (CRO), to launch Nigeria’s first Bioequivalence (BE) study. This groundbreaking initiative will focus on evaluating the efficacy and safety of Fidson’s innovative chewable Albendazole tablets, a key medication used to treat parasitic worm infections.
The collaboration between Fidson and Liddie BE marks a significant milestone not only for the two companies but also for Nigeria’s healthcare sector. This BE study, the first of its kind in the country, underscores Nigeria’s growing capability in advanced clinical research and positions the nation as an emerging hub for pharmaceutical research in Africa. Such developments could pave the way for future opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
Albendazole, an FDA-approved medication, plays a critical role in treating parasitic infections that are prevalent in Nigeria and other regions worldwide. Fidson’s new chewable formulation is designed to improve accessibility and ease of use, particularly for children and individuals who have difficulty swallowing pills. The BE study will compare this novel formulation with the standard reference to ensure it meets global standards for safety and efficacy.
Speaking at the press conference to announce the partnership, Dr. Fidelis Ayebae, CEO of Fidson Healthcare, expressed his enthusiasm for this pioneering venture.
“We are proud to be leading innovation in Nigeria’s healthcare industry. This BE study is a crucial step towards obtaining WHO Prequalification for our chewable Albendazole tablets, which will allow us to offer a globally recognized treatment option. The fact that this is Nigeria’s first BE study—and one of the first in Africa—reflects the success of our local efforts and our vision for the future,” Ayebae stated.
The WHO Prequalification (WHO-PQ) program is a global initiative that ensures the quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Achieving WHO-PQ status for Fidson’s chewable Albendazole tablets would not only enhance the company’s credibility on the global stage but also improve access to high-quality medications in Nigeria and beyond. This is especially important in a country like Nigeria, where parasitic infections are common, and access to effective treatments is often limited.
Prof. Lara Orafidiya, Managing Director of Liddie BE Ltd, echoed Ayebae’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of this study for Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
“We are delighted to partner with Fidson on this critical study. Our expertise in clinical research will ensure that this product meets international standards for safety and efficacy. We are committed to advancing Nigeria’s healthcare landscape through world-class clinical trials and research,” Orafidiya said.
Liddie BE Ltd, known for its quality-driven approach and team of skilled scientists and administrators, brings invaluable expertise to this project. The company’s involvement ensures that the BE study will be conducted with the highest level of accuracy and compliance with regulatory guidelines. Through this partnership, Liddie BE is also contributing to a broader goal—strengthening Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry and fostering a culture of excellence in clinical research.
The implications of this BE study extend beyond the immediate partnership. It signals a broader transformation in Nigeria’s ability to conduct high-level clinical research domestically, reducing the reliance on international CROs. This shift not only elevates Nigeria’s standing in the global pharmaceutical industry but also creates local job opportunities and helps build a skilled workforce in clinical research and development. Moreover, the results of the BE study will provide crucial data to support Fidson’s application for WHO-PQ for its chewable Albendazole tablets. A successful outcome would be a significant achievement for Fidson Healthcare and a major milestone for Nigeria, showcasing the country’s ability to produce internationally recognized pharmaceutical products.
As Dr. Ayebae noted, this partnership is a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and innovation. By conducting Nigeria’s first Bioequivalence study, Fidson and Liddie BE are setting a new standard for the nation’s healthcare sector. This collaboration has the potential to transform the pharmaceutical landscape in Nigeria, enhancing access to quality treatments and boosting the country’s reputation on the global stage.
As Fidson and Liddie BE continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in Nigerian healthcare, their efforts are poised to have a lasting impact—advancing not only their own interests but also contributing to the health and well-being of millions of Nigerians.
