NEWS
Abia Moves Closer to Becoming Nigeria’s Renewable Energy Hub as Governor Otti Backs $145 Million Solar Manufacturing Plant
Abia State is set to take another bold step in its industrial and economic transformation following plans by a consortium of investors to establish a 145-million-dollar solar manufacturing plant in the state, a landmark project expected to boost renewable energy production, create jobs and deepen industrial development.
Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, assuring the investors of government support and the protection of their investment.
The proposed solar manufacturing facility, which will be located at Umuelele in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, is to be developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the Abia State Government and MD Nwakamma Nigeria Limited in collaboration with Chinese technical partners.
Receiving the delegation, led by their Team Lead, Dr. Oko Jaja, at the Government House on Thursday, Governor Otti expressed delight that the ambitious project had advanced to its final investment stage, describing it as another strong vote of confidence in Abia’s rapidly improving investment climate.
“I’m glad that at least you have reached the final investment decision where you are investing up to 145 million Dollars.
“That is very good. This is what we stand for, creating an enabling environment for businesses to grow and for people to invest.
“We had to do everything that was required to make the land available. And we would like to assure you that if there is any other thing that you need for this investment, do not hesitate to let us know,” Governor Otti said.
Governor Otti emphasized that beyond the financial value of the investment, his administration is more interested in the long-term socio-economic benefits the project will deliver to the people of Abia.
He noted that major investments of this nature have the capacity to create thousands of jobs, expand the state’s economy, increase productivity and improve the overall standard of living.
“It is not just the investment; it is what goes with the investment, the jobs that it will create, the GDP that would rise and the prosperity that it will also generate.
“So those are very important to us.
“So we don’t take investors lightly. We try to protect them and make life easy for them.
“So I want to encourage you to continue to do what you are doing. And like I said, if there is any way we can support, feel free to let us know,” Governor Otti added.
Earlier, the Team Lead of the investors, Dr. Oko Jaja, said the delegation visited the Governor to provide an update on the progress made toward the establishment of the proposed solar manufacturing facility.
He disclosed that the consortium, in partnership with its Chinese technical collaborators, plans to invest approximately 145 million dollars in the project and commended the Abia State Government for fostering an environment that encourages investment and private sector participation.
According to him, the first tranche of funding for the project is expected to be released in September 2026, paving the way for full implementation.
Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of MD Nwakamma Nigeria Limited, Mr. Dennis Madu Nwakamma, confirmed that the company is ready to commence the establishment of the solar manufacturing plant at Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, through the PPP arrangement with the Abia State Government.
He explained that the visit by the company’s Chinese technical partners to the project site was part of the preliminary technical assessment ahead of the commencement of construction and installation.
Nwakamma disclosed that the factory is expected to commence operations by the end of September, describing the project as a major milestone that will significantly expand renewable energy manufacturing and accelerate industrial growth in Abia State.
Beyond manufacturing solar panels and related accessories, he revealed that the project would serve as a major employment and capacity-building initiative for young people across the state through technical training and skills acquisition programmes.
According to him, the company has already commenced training youths in solar installation and other renewable energy technologies, while selected trainees will be sent to China for advanced training in solar manufacturing once production begins.
He stated that the initiative is designed to strengthen local technical expertise, promote technology transfer and position Abia State as a leading centre for renewable energy manufacturing and innovation in Nigeria.
The meeting was attended by the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday; Commissioner for Lands, Hon. Chaka Chukwumerije; Director-General of the Public-Private Partnership Office, Sir Chinedu Chijioke, alongside other senior government officials.