Nigerian manufacturers have committed to comprehensive collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate economic growth, contingent on addressing persistent industrial challenges.
George Onafowokan, Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Ogun State Branch, expressed this commitment during the groundbreaking ceremony for an 800-MW solar manufacturing complex in Mowe, Ogun State. The multi-billion naira facility represents significant private sector investment in Nigeria’s renewable energy manufacturing capacity.
“With the government addressing the challenges facing manufacturers and providing an enabling environment, Nigerian manufacturers are more than ready to support efforts aimed at growing the economy,” Onafowokan stated during the ceremony.
The solar manufacturing complex, developed by Tranos, will significantly enhance Nigeria’s local content policy implementation by reducing dependency on imported solar panels. Currently, over 90 percent of solar photovoltaic panels used in Nigeria are imported, creating supply chain delays and increased project costs.
Jude Abalaka, Managing Director of Tranos, explained that the facility will address these challenges through local production capacity. “Tranos aims to produce enough panels locally to meet the entire Nigerian market’s demand, with additional capacity for export,” he announced.
The manufacturing facility will operate initially with one production line, expected to become operational within 15 to 18 months and produce 400 megawatts annually. Full 800-megawatt capacity is targeted for completion by 2027, demonstrating commitment to supporting Nigeria’s renewable energy objectives.
Employment generation represents another significant benefit, with Tranos projecting workforce expansion from 160 to approximately 400 employees within two years. This job creation aligns with broader economic development objectives and skills development priorities.
Abba Abubakar Aliyu, Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency, commended the initiative as aligned with federal government efforts to position Nigeria as Africa’s renewable energy hub. The project supports strategic objectives of energy security and industrial development.
The solar manufacturing complex exemplifies the type of value-added manufacturing that can transform Nigeria’s industrial landscape. By producing sophisticated technology products locally, the facility contributes to import substitution and export potential development.
Local content development through this initiative extends beyond immediate manufacturing benefits to encompass technology transfer, skills development, and supply chain strengthening. These multiplier effects support broader industrial ecosystem development.
The manufacturers’ commitment to economic growth partnership reflects recognition that successful industrialization requires collaboration between private sector capabilities and government policy support. Addressing manufacturing challenges while leveraging private sector investment represents a balanced approach to economic development.
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