Abia State Governor Alex Otti welcomes a proposed $145 million solar manufacturing plant in the state, saying the project supports industrialisation, job creation, and economic development. The investment is promoted by MD Nwakanma Nigeria Limited in partnership with Chinese technical partners and is planned for Umuelele in Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. Otti receives an investors’ delegation at Government House in Umuahia and says the investors have reached a final investment decision. He also states that the state government has provided the required land and is willing to offer additional support needed for implementation. The project is described as being structured through a Public-Private Partnership between the Abia State Government and the investors. An investor representative briefs Otti on the project’s progress and says the first tranche of funding is expected in September 2026, with operations projected to begin by the end of September. The parties also say the plant is expected to create jobs for youths through skills training and capacity building. Premium Times and other outlets report that Otti’s endorsement includes assurance that Abia will help address any remaining issues for successful execution.