Business
Celebrating a Trailblazer: Stella Okoli’s Birthday Bash
Stella Okoli, the renowned Nigerian pharmacist and CEO of Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company, recently celebrated her birthday in a grand style in Lagos. The event was marked by a special performance from an iconic singer, adding a touch of glamour to the occasion.
Born in 1944 in Kano State, Okoli’s journey in education began at All Saints Primary School in Onitsha. She then progressed to Ogidi Girls Secondary School where she completed her education in 1964.
In 1969, Stella graduated from the University of Bradford with a degree in Pharmacy, and she furthered her studies, earning an M.Sc. in Biopharmaceutical from the University of London’s Chelsea College in 1971.
In 1970, she married Christopher Nnaemeka Okoli, a lawyer, and together they raised three children: Emeka, Uzoma, and Chike. Sadly, she experienced the loss of her son Chike in 2005, a tragedy that drove her to establish the Chike Okoli Foundation the following year. This non-profit aims to combat poverty and cardiovascular diseases through awareness campaigns.
Before launching her own company, Stella gained valuable experience working with various pharmaceutical firms, including Middlesex Hospital in London and Boots the Chemists Limited. Her entrepreneurial journey officially began in January 1977 when she opened a small retail pharmacy shop, originally named “Emzor Chemists Limited” in Somolu, Lagos.
Today, Emzor Pharmaceutical has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading pharmaceutical companies, boasting over 50 different products since it became incorporated in 1984.
Stella’s contributions to the industry extend beyond her company. She is an active member of both the Economic Summit of Nigeria and the Health Matters Advisory Board of Nigeria. Additionally, she holds the position of Vice President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.
Her leadership experience includes previously serving as Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, showcasing her commitment to advancing the pharmaceutical sector in Nigeria.
