Abia State is set to host a $145 million solar panel manufacturing plant following a public-private partnership between MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited and Chinese investors, in a move expected to strengthen the state’s industrial base and expand Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
The facility will be located in Umuelele, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area, with the Abia State Government providing land and support for the project. Governor Alex Otti described the investment as a major milestone for industrialization, saying it will create jobs, boost the state’s GDP and position Abia as a key player in clean energy manufacturing. The first tranche of funding is expected in September 2026, with
As part of the agreement, selected young Nigerians will receive technical training in China before returning to work at the facility. The project forms part of the Otti administration’s broader plan to revive Aba’s manufacturing sector and attract more foreign direct investment into Abia.
Supporters have praised the development as a significant economic win, although some labor advocates have urged the government to ensure strong worker protection and oversight, citing concerns over labor practices at some Chinese-owned companies operating in Nigeria.
