Stella Okoli is a prominent Nigerian pharmacist and entrepreneur, known for her remarkable contributions to the pharmaceutical industry through Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company.
This article explores her early life, education, career achievements, and personal endeavors, highlighting her journey as an influential figure in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Background
- Date of Birth: 1944
- Place of Birth: Kano State, Nigeria
Stella Okoli was born in Kano State, Nigeria, in 1944. She hails from a family that emphasized the importance of education and hard work, values that would later shape her illustrious career.
Primary and Secondary Education
- Primary School: All Saints Primary School, Onitsha
- Secondary School: Ogidi Girls Secondary School, Ogidi (Graduated in 1964)
Okoli began her formal education at All Saints Primary School in Onitsha. She continued her education at Ogidi Girls Secondary School, where she completed her secondary studies in 1964.
Tertiary Education
- University of Bradford: Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy (1969)
- University of London, Chelsea College: Master’s degree in Biopharmaceuticals (1971)
Okoli pursued higher education abroad, earning a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Bradford in 1969. She furthered her studies at the University of London, Chelsea College, where she obtained a Master’s degree in Biopharmaceuticals in 1971.
Career Milestones
Early Career and Work Experience
Before founding her own pharmaceutical company, Stella Okoli gained valuable experience in various capacities. She worked at:
- Middlesex Hospital, London
- Boots the Chemists Limited
- Pharma-Deko
These roles provided her with a robust foundation in pharmacy and business management, preparing her for her entrepreneurial journey.
Establishment of Emzor Pharmaceutical
- Founded: January 1977
- Initial Name: Emzor Chemists Limited
- Location: Somolu, Lagos
In January 1977, Stella Okoli established Emzor Chemists Limited as a small retail pharmacy in Somolu, Lagos. The company started with a modest setup but soon expanded, evolving into Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company Limited. Emzor has grown into one of Nigeria’s leading pharmaceutical companies, offering a wide range of over 50 products since its incorporation in 1984.
Contributions and Impact
Leadership and Affiliations
Stella Okoli has held several key positions in industry associations, contributing to the growth and regulation of the pharmaceutical sector in Nigeria. She currently serves as:
- Vice President: Manufacturers Association of Nigeria
- Vice President: Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture
- Member: Economic Summit of Nigeria
- Member: Health Matters Advisory Board of Nigeria
She has also previously served as the Chairman of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives
Chike Okoli Foundation
- Founded: 2006
- Purpose: To combat poverty and diseases, with a focus on cardiovascular health awareness
The tragic loss of her son, Chike Okoli, in 2005 prompted Stella Okoli to establish the Chike Okoli Foundation. The foundation, founded in 2006, aims to raise awareness about cardiovascular diseases and tackle poverty through various initiatives. Additionally, the Chike Okoli Centre for Entrepreneurial Studies was established to foster entrepreneurship among young Nigerians.
Personal Life
Family
- Spouse: Christopher Nnaemeka Okoli, a lawyer (married in 1970)
- Children: Emeka Okoli, Uzoma Okoli, and Chike Okoli (deceased)
Stella Okoli married Christopher Nnaemeka Okoli in 1970. The couple had three children: Emeka, Uzoma, and Chike. The death of her son Chike in 2005 deeply affected her, leading to the establishment of the Chike Okoli Foundation as a means to honor his memory and continue his legacy.
Recent Events
Birthday Celebration
Stella Okoli recently celebrated her birthday in Lagos, which became a notable event as it featured the last performance by the iconic Nigerian singer Onyeka Onwenu before her passing.
