…Says factory will create over 45,000 jobs, produce 3m tons of cement, others

By Victor Ahiuma-Young

The Kebbi State Government has provided insight into the reasons behind the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Kebbi State Government and MSM Cement Ltd for the establishment of a cement factory in Maiyama Local Government Area (LGA) of the state, saying the factory will transform state’s economy .

According to the government, the MOU marks a pivotal moment in the economic and industrial ambitions promised by the state governor during his electioneering campaign prior to the 2023 elections.

The State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed, in a statement, among other points, said, “A few days ago, the agreement was formalized at the Kebbi State Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, in the presence of Governor Idris, the Chairman of MSM, Mu’azzam Mairawani, and some key federal officials. This investment represents one of the most significant financial commitments to Kebbi since its inception in 1991, and it stands as a triumphant example of successful business negotiations by any administration in the region in recent history. It highlights the exceptional leadership qualities of Kebbi’s most progressive governor to date.

“The agreement is set to generate 20,000 direct jobs and an additional 25,000 indirect jobs, positioning this venture as one of the leading private employers in this region of Nigeria. It is exciting to anticipate that the MSM Kebbi Cement Factory will produce over three million tons of cement per year, utilizing cutting-edge technology that promises to deliver one of the highest-quality cement products in the country.

“This development represents far more than merely establishing a manufacturing facility; it signals the dawn of a new era of economic growth and industrial achievement that will enhance the livelihoods of Kebbi state residents. Moreover, MSM’s investment is just the beginning, heralding a wave of global interest as international investors are eager to tap into the state’s rich mineral resources, graciously endowed by God Almighty.

“As highlighted by the MSM Chairman during the MOU signing in Abuja, one significant factor influencing their decision to invest in Kebbi was the region’s abundance of high-quality mineral resources, coupled with its peaceful communities, supportive environment, and available labor force.

“It is crucial to note that this project will serve as a catalyst for numerous other investors looking to leverage Kebbi’s unique advantages to engage in its promising mining sector. For instance, a Chinese firm is currently in negotiations with the government to explore lithium resources, which could lead to the creation of over 50,000 jobs. The presence of high-quality lithium deposits in areas like Shanga and Fakai is attracting considerable global interest.

“Lithium, a soft, silvery-white alkali metal, is the lightest metal known and one of the least dense solid minerals. It has various applications ranging from batteries, ceramics, and glass to medicinal uses. For example, lithium is a crucial component in lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and portable electronics. In the medical field, it is utilized in pacemakers and to manage mood disorders such as mania and depression.

“The developments in Kebbi clearly position the state as an emerging hotspot for solid mineral exploration and potential economic growth. All these promising events can be attributed to a critical element that had long been missing in Kebbi: a visionary governor equipped with the leadership skills and foresight required to implement policies that can significantly improve the lives of residents living in a resource-rich area. The election of Dr. Nasir Idris as Kebbi State Governor in 2023 marks a transformative choice poised to reshape the economic landscape of the state.”