Abia to Host $145 Million Solar Manufacturing Plant as Governor Otti Backs Major Investment

Abia State is set to strengthen its position in Nigeria’s renewable energy and manufacturing sector following plans to establish a $145 million solar manufacturing plant in the state. Governor Alex Otti has welcomed the investment, describing it as a major milestone that will accelerate industrialisation, create jobs and drive sustainable economic growth.

The solar manufacturing facility will be developed by MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited in partnership with Chinese technical partners and is expected to be located at Umuelele in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

Speaking while receiving the investors, led by Dr. Oko Jaja, at the Government House in Umuahia, Governor Otti expressed satisfaction that the project had reached its final investment decision, describing it as a clear demonstration of investor confidence in Abia State.

According to the governor, his administration remains committed to creating a business-friendly environment that attracts both local and foreign investments. He noted that the state government had already fulfilled its responsibility by making the required land available for the project and assured the investors of continued support throughout its implementation.

Otti emphasized that investments of this scale go beyond the financial value they bring. He said the project is expected to generate employment opportunities, stimulate economic activities, increase the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and improve the overall prosperity of Abia residents.

He reaffirmed that his administration places high priority on protecting investors and removing obstacles that could hinder business operations, encouraging the project developers to seek government assistance whenever necessary.

Earlier, the leader of the investment delegation, Dr. Oko Jaja, said the visit was aimed at updating the governor on the progress made toward establishing the solar manufacturing facility. He revealed that the project, which is being executed in collaboration with Chinese technical partners, will attract an estimated $145 million in investment.

Jaja also praised the Abia State Government for providing an enabling environment that has encouraged investors to move forward with the project. He disclosed that the first tranche of funding is expected to be released in September 2026, paving the way for the next phase of implementation.

The Chief Executive Officer of MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited, Dennis Nwakanma, explained that the factory will be established under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement with the Abia State Government. He noted that the visit by the Chinese technical partners formed part of the technical assessment and site inspection required before construction begins.

Nwakanma expressed confidence that the manufacturing plant would commence operations by the end of September 2026, describing it as a transformative project for both the state’s industrial sector and Nigeria’s renewable energy industry.

Beyond producing solar panels and other solar energy components, the facility is expected to serve as a hub for skills development and workforce training. The company said the project will provide employment opportunities for young people while equipping them with technical skills that will support the growth of the clean energy sector.

The planned investment reflects Abia State’s growing appeal as a destination for large-scale industrial projects and highlights the increasing role of renewable energy in Nigeria’s economic diversification strategy. If completed as scheduled, the solar manufacturing plant is expected to contribute significantly to local manufacturing, reduce dependence on imported solar products and position Abia as a key player in the country’s transition toward sustainable energy.