$145 Million Solar Plant Set for Abia as Governor Otti Attracts Major Renewable Energy Investment

Abia State has recorded another major investment breakthrough as a consortium of investors announced plans to establish a $145 million solar manufacturing plant in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

The investors, led by Dr. Oko Jaja, formally briefed Governor Alex Otti on Thursday after reaching the Final Investment Decision (FID) stage—a milestone that confirms the project’s financial commitment and readiness for implementation.

Receiving the delegation at Government House, Umuahia, Governor Otti described the development as a strong endorsement of his administration’s economic policies and investor-friendly reforms.

“I’m glad that you have reached the final investment decision where you are investing up to 145 million dollars. This is exactly what we stand for—creating an enabling environment for businesses to grow and for people to invest,” the Governor said.

Governor Otti assured the investors of his administration’s continued support, noting that the government had already taken the necessary steps to make land available for the project.

“We have done everything required to make the land available, and if there is anything else you need, do not hesitate to let us know,” he added.

The Governor emphasized that beyond the financial value of the investment, the project would stimulate economic growth through job creation, increased Gross Domestic Product (GDP), industrial expansion, and improved prosperity for residents.

“We don’t take investors lightly. We protect investments because of the jobs they create, the growth they bring to the economy, and the prosperity they generate,” Otti stated.

Speaking on behalf of the investors, Dr. Oko Jaja disclosed that the project is being executed in partnership with Chinese investors, who are committing approximately $145 million to the establishment of the solar manufacturing facility.

He praised the Abia State Government for creating a conducive business environment through improved infrastructure, ease of doing business, and policies that inspire investor confidence.

According to him, the first tranche of funding is expected to be released in September 2026, paving the way for the next phase of implementation.

Also speaking, the Chief Executive Officer of MD NWAKANMA NIGERIA Limited, Mr. Dennis Madu Nwakamma, said the factory would be developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the Abia State Government.

He explained that Chinese technical partners had already visited the proposed project site for preliminary assessments, while construction is expected to commence by the end of September.

Beyond manufacturing solar panels and related components, Nwakamma said the project would significantly impact youth empowerment by creating employment opportunities and developing local technical expertise.

According to him, young Abians are already receiving training in solar installation and renewable energy technologies, while selected workers will undergo advanced manufacturing training in China once the factory begins operations.

The project is expected to position Abia as one of Nigeria’s emerging centres for renewable energy manufacturing while supporting the country’s transition to cleaner energy solutions.

Present at the meeting were the Commissioner for Power and Public Utilities, Engr. Ikechukwu Monday; the Commissioner for Lands, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije; the Director-General of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Office; and other senior government officials.