The Abia government and a consortium of local and foreign investors have intensified efforts to establish a $145 million solar manufacturing plant in the state under a public-private partnership arrangement.

The proposed facility, to be located at Umuelele in Isiala Ngwa South council area, is a partnership between the Abia government, MD Nwakamma Nigeria Ltd and Chinese technical partners.

Governor Alex Otti restated the state’s commitment to the project while receiving the investors on Thursday in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South council area.

The governor said that his administration remained committed to creating an investor-friendly environment and would continue to provide the necessary support for businesses to thrive.

He expressed delight that the project had reached the final investment decision stage, describing it as a milestone for the state’s industrial development agenda.

According to him, the state government had already provided the required land for the project and is prepared to address any other issues that may arise to ensure its successful implementation.

The leader of the delegation, Oko Jaja, said that they visited the governor to present a progress report on the establishment of the solar manufacturing plant.

Mr Jaja said that the consortium, in collaboration with its Chinese technical partners, planned to invest about $145 million in the project. He added that the first tranche of funding was expected in September 2026.

Mr Jaja commended the Abia government for creating an environment that had inspired investors’ confidence.

The CEO of MD Nwakamma Nigeria, Dennis Nwakamma, said that the project would mark a breakthrough in renewable energy manufacturing in Abia. He said that the visit by the Chinese partners to the project site was part of technical assessments ahead of construction and commencement of operations.

Mr Nwakamma said that the factory would manufacture solar panels and related accessories while providing employment and technical training opportunities for young people.

He also said that the company had begun training youths on solar installation, while selected trainees would be sent to China for advanced training on solar manufacturing.

According to him, the initiative will enhance local technical expertise and position Abia as a major hub for renewable energy in Nigeria.

(NAN)