Abia State has recorded another major investment milestone as plans for the establishment of a $145 million solar manufacturing plant in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, have reached the Final Investment Decision (FID) stage.
Governor Alex Otti disclosed this after receiving a delegation of investors led by Dr. Oko Jaja alongside the Chief Executive Officer of MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, Mr. Dennis Madu Nwakanma.
According to the governor, Dr. Jaja briefed him on the progress made towards the project, which is being developed in partnership with Chinese investors.
Otti described the achievement of the Final Investment Decision as a strong vote of confidence in Abia State’s improving business environment, noting that it reinforces his administration’s vision of positioning the state as a preferred destination for both local and foreign investment.
He said the state government has fulfilled all requirements regarding land acquisition for the project and remains committed to providing every necessary support to ensure its successful implementation.
The governor said the solar manufacturing plant is expected to create employment opportunities for young people, promote skills development, stimulate economic activities, and contribute to the overall prosperity of the state.
Otti commended Dr. Jaja, MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, and the investors for choosing Abia as the location for the project, expressing optimism over the project’s implementation timeline.
He revealed that the first tranche of funding for the project is expected by September 2026, while construction of the factory is projected to commence before the end of the same month.
The governor also disclosed that preparations for the project have already commenced, with young Abians currently undergoing training in solar installation and related technologies. He added that selected workers would receive advanced technical training in China once the manufacturing plant becomes operational.
The proposed solar manufacturing plant is expected to strengthen Abia State’s industrial base while advancing Nigeria’s transition to renewable energy through local production of solar technologies.
