Fidson Founder Ayebae Announces Retirement at PWDAN Conference

In what came as a stunning but heartfelt announcement, Dr Fidelis Ayebae, the founder and longtime managing director of Fidson Healthcare Plc, declared his retirement during the 4th Annual National Conference of the Pharmaceutical Wholesalers and Distributors Association of Nigeria (PWDAN), held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos

The revelation was made during his keynote speech as Chairman of the Conference themed “Bridging Gaps: Integrating Pharma Wholesalers and Distributors for Medicine Security in Nigeria.”

“As of May 1st, 2025, I have officially retired from Fidson Healthcare Plc, the company I nurtured for decades,” Ayebae revealed, drawing a mix of applause and surprise from participants.

Although he no longer leads the company, Ayebae noted that a new managing director is in charge. “I am pleased to introduce Pharm. Biola Adebayo as the new managing director of Fidson—a capable man who shares the values that built our company,” he said.

Ayebae, who chaired the occasion, explained that he accepted the invitation to the event despite nearing retirement because of his strong belief in PWDAN’s mission. “Even knowing I was approaching retirement, I still accepted this invitation—because I believe in what PWDAN stands for,” he stated.

Known for his candour and humour, he joked, “Please, don’t hesitate to invite me to any of your events—even if it’s to name your dog’s puppies or honour your great-grandfather’s memory—I’m happily available,” drawing laughter from the crowd.

Dr Ayebae led Fidson for nearly three decades, overseeing its growth into one of Nigeria’s leading pharmaceutical manufacturers. He also once served as chairman of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN), advocating for increased local production and medicine security.

As he stepped down from corporate leadership, Ayebae reaffirmed his continued support for the pharmaceutical industry, urging stakeholders to continue pushing for reforms and collaboration.