Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has thrown his weight behind a proposed $145 million solar manufacturing plant in the state, saying the project would accelerate industrial development, create jobs and boost economic activities.
The planned facility, which will be sited at Umuelele in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, is being promoted by MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited in partnership with Chinese technical investors.
Speaking at the Government House in Umuahia on Thursday while receiving a delegation of investors led by Dr Oko Jaja, Otti said the state government was committed to supporting investments capable of transforming the economy and improving the welfare of residents.
He commended the investors for reaching the final investment decision stage and assured them of the government's readiness to provide the necessary support to ensure the project's success.
The governor noted that his administration had already taken steps to make land available for the development and would continue to address any challenges that could hinder its implementation.
According to him, the benefits of such investments extend beyond capital inflows to include employment generation, increased economic output and improved living standards.
Otti stressed that attracting and protecting investors remained a key priority of his administration, adding that the state would continue to foster a conducive business environment.
"We are interested in investments because of the opportunities they create for our people and the impact they have on economic growth," he said.
Earlier, Jaja said the delegation visited the governor to update him on progress made towards the establishment of the solar manufacturing facility.
He disclosed that the project would attract about $145 million in investment and praised the Abia State Government for creating an environment that encourages private sector participation.
Jaja further revealed that the first tranche of funding for the project is expected to be released in September 2026, paving the way for the next phase of implementation.
Also speaking, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, Dennis Nwakanma, said the factory would be developed through a Public-Private Partnership arrangement with the Abia State Government.
He explained that the visit by the Chinese technical partners was part of site evaluation activities ahead of the commencement of construction work.
Nwakanma expressed optimism that the project would become a major renewable energy hub in the state, producing solar panels and other related products for local and regional markets.
He added that the factory would also provide skills training and employment opportunities for young people, contributing to workforce development and economic empowerment in the state.
When completed, the plant is expected to strengthen Abia's position as an emerging destination for industrial investment while supporting Nigeria's transition to cleaner energy sources.
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