Johnson & Johnson Plans to Exit Nigeria

In a troubling development highlighting the growing difficulties faced by multinational corporations in Nigeria, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicines (J&J) is reportedly planning to cease operations in the country.

Sources close to the company disclosed to the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) that the decision is driven by Nigeria’s worsening economic environment, characterized by soaring inflation, foreign exchange shortages, rising production costs, and unpredictable government policies. These challenges have rendered continued operations unsustainable for the healthcare giant.

An anonymous informant revealed that over the past year, J&J has significantly downsized its Nigerian workforce by approximately 80%. Additionally, the company’s Consumer Healthcare division quietly exited Nigeria in 2022, further indicating the deteriorating business climate.

“This isn’t just about one company pulling out,” the source stated. “When a healthcare leader like Johnson & Johnson cannot sustain its operations here, it sends a worrying signal to other foreign investors about Nigeria’s investment climate.”

The impending departure of J&J is expected to create a substantial gap in Nigeria’s healthcare supply chain, especially in critical sectors such as Oncology, Immunology, and Mental Health. This development could limit Nigerians’ access to essential medicines and advanced healthcare solutions.