Otti Lauds $145m Solar Plant Project, Says Investment Will Boost Jobs and Economic Growth

ABIA – Governor Alex Otti has described the proposed 145 million-dollar solar manufacturing plant in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state as a welcome development.

Governor Otti, who received the investment partners led by Dr Oko Jaja at his office, said he was delighted that the investors had reached the final investment decision to commit such a significant amount to the state.

The Governor expressed joy that the investors found Abia suitable for such a major investment, noting that his administration is committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. He added that the government had made the required land available for the project.

Governor Otti said the importance of the investment could not be overemphasised, stressing that it would have a multiplier effect on the state’s economy through job creation, increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and overall economic prosperity.

Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Dr Oko Jaja, said they visited to update the Governor on the significant progress made towards the establishment of the proposed solar manufacturing plant.

Dr Jaja disclosed that they are collaborating with their Chinese partners to invest about 145 million dollars in the project, which will be located in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. He commended Governor Otti for providing an enabling environment for the investment, adding that the first tranche of the funds is expected to be released in September this year.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, Mr Dennis Nwakamma, said the company is set to establish the plant through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with the Abia State Government.

He explained that the visit by the company’s Chinese technical partners to the proposed site formed part of the preliminary assessment aimed at facilitating the commencement of the project.

Mr Nwakamma stated that, beyond the production of solar panels and other solar accessories, the project is designed to create employment opportunities for Abia youths through skills acquisition and capacity development.

He noted that the company is already training young people in solar installation and related technologies, adding that, upon the commencement of operations, selected workers would be sent to China for advanced training in solar manufacturing.

The Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Mr Ikechukwu Monday, the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr Chaka Chukwumerije, the Director-General of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Office and other government functionaries were present during the meeting.