Abia State Governor Alex Otti has welcomed plans to establish a $145 million solar manufacturing plant in the state, describing the project as a significant step toward boosting industrialisation, creating jobs and expanding the state’s economy.
The proposed facility, to be developed by MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited in partnership with Chinese technical partners, will be located in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
Speaking while receiving the investors, led by Dr. Oko Jaja, at the Government House in Umuahia on Thursday, Otti expressed satisfaction that the project had reached its final investment decision.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing a business-friendly environment, noting that the state had already made the required land available for the project and remained ready to offer additional support where necessary.
“We are pleased that you have reached the stage of committing about $145 million to this investment. Our goal is to create an enabling environment for businesses to grow and for investors to succeed,” the governor said.
According to Otti, attracting investments goes beyond the capital involved, as such projects contribute to economic expansion, increase the state’s Gross Domestic Product and generate employment opportunities for residents.
He assured the investors that his administration would continue to protect investments and remove obstacles that could hinder their operations.
Earlier, Jaja said the delegation visited the governor to provide an update on preparations for the solar manufacturing plant, adding that the project would be executed with Chinese technical partners and involve an investment of about $145 million.
He commended the Abia State Government for creating a favourable environment for investors and disclosed that the first tranche of funding for the project is expected to be released in September 2026.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, Dennis Nwakanma, said the company would deliver the project through a Public-Private Partnership with the Abia State Government.
He explained that the visit by the Chinese technical team formed part of the preliminary assessment of the proposed site ahead of construction.
Nwakanma expressed confidence that the factory would commence operations by the end of September, adding that, beyond manufacturing solar panels and other solar energy components, the facility would provide skills training and employment opportunities for young people while strengthening renewable energy production in the state.
