Founded in 2019 by Dr. Abasi Ene‑Obong and colleagues, 54gene was launched to redress the global underrepresentation of African genetic material in biomedical research—then less than 3% of available genome databases. Based in Lagos, the company adopted a mission to collect, sequence, and analyze African DNA, harnessing its rich diversity to inform precision medicine and drug discovery on a global scale.
Infrastructure and Partnerships
54gene quickly built a robust scientific foundation. It established Nigeria’s first private whole-genome sequencing lab in 2020, equipped with Illumina’s NovaSeq 6000 platform. This milestone marked a turning point for African biotech capacity.
In 2021, it launched the African Centre for Translational Genomics (ACTG), which funded fellowships, research grants, and bioinformatics training across the continent. The company also developed a vast public-private research network through its Non‑Communicable Diseases Genetic Heritage Study (NCD‑GHS), enrolling over 100,000 Nigerians. The focus areas included sickle cell anemia, cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and chronic kidney disease.
Scientific Impact
In May 2022, 54gene’s ACTG completed the first study of 100,000 Nigerian genomes, revealing remarkable genetic diversity across more than 300 ethnic groups. These findings provided critical insights for global precision medicine and underscored the unique value of African DNA in understanding disease risk and drug response.
By leveraging underrepresented data, 54gene positioned African populations as central contributors to the future of personalized healthcare.
Financial Growth and Strategic Shifts
The company raised over $45 million in venture funding by 2021 from backers like Y Combinator and Fifty Years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 54gene pivoted temporarily, launching 7RiverLabs to offer diagnostic testing, including COVID tests, to meet urgent national needs.
Although 7RiverLabs was one of Nigeria’s leading test providers at the time, demand waned after the pandemic. This led to a strategic contraction, and the diagnostics arm was shut down in 2022.
Leadership Changes and Company Closure
In October 2022, founder Abasi Ene‑Obong stepped down as CEO, succeeded by interim leader Teresia L. Bost. By 2023, 54gene faced continued financial headwinds, resulting in layoffs, changes in leadership, and ultimately, a decision to cease operations.
In September 2023, reports confirmed the company was shutting down, ending one of Africa’s most ambitious biotech ventures.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Despite its closure, 54gene leaves behind a significant scientific and institutional legacy:
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A large African genomic biobank with tens of thousands of sequenced samples.
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The ACTG research infrastructure, which may be leveraged by future institutions.
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A trained workforce of African genomics professionals.
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Renewed focus on genomics equity through Syndicate Bio, a company launched by Dr. Ene‑Obong in 2023 to continue this mission globally.
What It All Means
54gene’s rise and fall reflect both the promise and challenges of building a high-tech biotech business in Africa. The scientific value it generated remains relevant, especially as health equity and personalized medicine gain prominence.
| Key Insight | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Value | Validated Africa’s genetic contribution to global health innovation |
| Financial Lessons | Demonstrated biotech’s capital-intensive nature and market volatility |
| Regional Influence | Boosted awareness, training, and policy interest in African genomics |
| Ongoing Mission | Continuity through Syndicate Bio and preserved genomic data assets |
