Fidson Healthcare pays N3.6 billion dividend to its shareholders

Shareholders of Nigeria's biggest pharmaceutical company, Fidson Healthcare Plc, have approved a dividend of ₦1.50 per 50 kobo ordinary share. This totals ₦3.6 billion. The decision was made at the Company's 27th Annual General Meeting held virtually on Thursday, 30 July.

This approval comes after a year where the company hit important growth milestones. It also marks one year since a smooth leadership transition at both the Board and Management levels. Shareholders see this as proof of Fidson’s strong corporate governance and good plans for leadership succession. It also shows their trust in the Company’s ability to keep delivering value, even in tough times.

Fidelis Ayebae, the Founder and Chairman of Fidson, told shareholders that 2025 will be a key year for the Company. He said, "We recorded revenue of ₦119.06 billion, becoming the first pharmaceutical company in Nigeria to surpass the ₦100 billion annual revenue milestone. This achievement reflects the dedication of our people, the confidence of our shareholders, and the effectiveness of our long-term growth strategy."

Mr Ayebae also thanked the Federal Government of Nigeria for helping local pharmaceutical companies like Fidson. He said that government policies have made it easier for companies to meet the high demand for affordable medicine in Nigeria. He added that Fidson is making important investments that will change healthcare manufacturing in Africa.

He said, "Our ongoing expansion projects have reached advanced stages and, upon completion, will position Fidson as the largest and most sophisticated pharmaceutical manufacturing company in Sub-Saharan Africa. We are confident that Fidson is well-positioned to deliver sustainable growth, deepen healthcare access, and continue to create superior value for our shareholders and all stakeholders."

During the meeting, the Managing Director and CEO, Biola Adebayo, responded to shareholders’ questions. She emphasized the Company’s commitment to growth through innovation and strong manufacturing. She said, "Our focus remains clear, to deepen our manufacturing capabilities, widen our product portfolio, improve market penetration, and build a healthcare institution that delivers value to consumers, healthcare professionals, shareholders, and society at large. We will achieve this by taking advantage of emerging opportunities across Africa and continually strengthening our processes for sustainable growth."

Shareholders praised the Board and Management for keeping the Company on its growth track. They appreciated the dividend policy that rewards investors while also saving enough for future growth. They expressed confidence in the management’s ability to build on what has been achieved and further strengthen Fidson’s position as the top pharmaceutical manufacturer in Nigeria.

Along with approving the dividend, shareholders also accepted other resolutions at the AGM. This included the election and re-election of directors, fixing auditors’ pay, and electing members of the Statutory Audit Committee. This further shows the Company’s commitment to transparency and good governance.

The meeting also highlighted Fidson’s effort to engage shareholders better. They are using electronic annual reports, e-dividend platforms, and virtual AGMs. This makes it easier for shareholders to join in the Company’s activities.

As Fidson Healthcare Plc steps into a new growth phase, the Company stays true to its vision of improving lives through quality medicines. They aim to provide sustainable returns to shareholders and contribute positively to Africa’s healthcare system.