By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing (JSM) company in Awa, ONNA Local Council of Akwa Ibom has ended its operations attributing the decision to “unforeseen circumstances affecting our business operations.”
The company which was reputed to be the largest syringe manufacturing venture in Africa was inaugurated in 2017 by former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo.
Though it had stopped production many months ago, it finally announced the end of operations on December 31, 2023 saying it had to implement temporary measures to ensure the long term sustainability of the company.
A memo addressed to it’s workers , obtained by newsmen yesterday in Uyo stated that all positions have been placed on temporary redundancy effective January 1, 2024.
The statement titled, “Temporary Redundancy – Service Not Needed Till Further Notice,’’ and addressed to all workers read in part, “We trust this message finds you in good health. It is with a heavy heart that we write to you today to communicate a challenging decision that Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing Company Limited has had to make due to unforeseen circumstances affecting our business operations.
“After careful consideration and a thorough evaluation of our current business situation, we regret to inform you that we must implement temporary measures to ensure the long term sustainability of the company.
“Unfortunately, this includes placing all positions including yours on temporary redundancy effective January 1, 2024.
“We want to emphasise that this decision is not a reflection of your individual performance or dedication to the company. The challenging business environment we find ourselves in has compelled us to take these difficult steps.
“Please return all company belongings in your custody.Thank you for your understanding and cooperation during these challenging times.”
In an interview with the Managing Director, Akin Oyediran in April last year, he had said the company had secured a credit facility of $1 million amd attributing it to the enabling environment the state government has been able to provide for the growth of the manufacturing sector.
“Not only have we come into this environment, we are also growing, we are doing other products. The company would in addition to syringes, manufacture gloves, masks and infusion sets.
Our investors are investing one million dollars in the company because of the level playing field and the advantages provided by the state government.’’ Oyediran had said.
