Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has welcomed a proposed $145 million solar manufacturing plant to be established in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state.
The governor described the investment as a major boost to industrialisation, job creation, and the state’s economic growth.
The solar manufacturing plant is being developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement involving a consortium of local investors, MD Nwakamma Nigeria Ltd, and Chinese technical partners.
During a meeting with the investors at Government House, Umuahia on Thursday, Governor Otti expressed delight that the project had reached the Final Investment Decision stage, with the consortium committing up to $145 million.
The plant is expected to manufacture solar panels and related accessories. It will also provide technical training opportunities for youths, with some selected trainees to be sent to China for advanced training in solar manufacturing.
The first tranche of funding for the project is expected to be released by September 2026, marking the beginning of the next phase of execution.
Governor Otti assured the investors of the state government’s full support and commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. He emphasised that his administration places high value on investors because they bring capital, create jobs, and improve the standard of living of the people.
“We are pleased that you have reached the final investment decision involving about 145 million dollars. This is exactly what we stand for. We want businesses to grow, investments to come into the state, and our people to benefit from them,” Otti said.
He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investment protection and the ease of doing business in Abia State.
The leader of the investors’ team, Dr. Oko Jaja, commended Governor Otti for creating an investor-friendly environment in the state. He noted that the administration’s focus on infrastructure development and security had given them the confidence to proceed with the project.
He added that the plant would not only contribute to Abia’s industrial growth but also support Nigeria’s broader push towards renewable energy and local content development in the solar sector.
