A major step toward strengthening Nigeria’s industrial and energy sectors was taken on Saturday as key government officials joined industry stakeholders to launch a 200-megawatt solar power project for Abuja Steel Mills Limited in Dikko Community, Niger State.
The groundbreaking ceremony and handover of 500 hectares of land for the project were attended by the Minister of Steel Development, Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu; Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State; Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe; and the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh.
The solar power facility, being developed by Abuja Steel Mills Limited, a subsidiary of the African Industries Group (AIG), is projected to become the largest solar-powered industrial energy project in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Speaking at the event, Prince Audu described the project as a significant milestone in Nigeria’s industrial development agenda.
He noted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to attract foreign direct investment, boost local manufacturing and position Nigeria’s economy for sustained growth.
According to the minister, the project will provide the energy needed to support the operations and future expansion of Abuja Steel Mills, further strengthening the relationship between power generation and steel production as critical drivers of industrialisation.
Audu commended Governor Bago for allocating 500 hectares of land for the project, describing the decision as strategic and capable of positioning Niger State as a leading industrial hub in the country.
Governor Bago, in his remarks, expressed appreciation to African Industries Group for selecting Niger State as the host location for the landmark investment.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for private-sector investments and economic growth.
He described the project as evidence of the positive outcomes that can be achieved through collaboration between government and the private sector.
The governor also urged residents of the host community to safeguard the facility while encouraging the company to create employment opportunities for local youths.
Chairman of African Industries Group, Raj Gupta, described the ceremony as historic, noting that the company has remained committed to Nigeria’s development and industrial growth for more than five decades.
Also speaking, Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe praised Governor Bago’s support for industrial development, describing the solar project as a visionary initiative that will place Niger State at the centre of Nigeria’s industrial ecosystem.
Similarly, Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, highlighted the importance of collaboration among the power, steel and industrial sectors.
He said the project demonstrates the value of inter-ministerial cooperation in advancing sustainable economic development and commended African Industries Group for facilitating the partnership.
The 200MW solar power project is expected to significantly enhance energy supply for industrial operations, reduce dependence on conventional power sources and support Nigeria’s broader industrialisation ambitions.
