By Our Reporter
The Ebonyi State Government has taken a major step towards industrial development with plans to establish a new cement factory in Nkalagu, a move expected to create thousands of jobs and boost economic activities across the state and beyond.
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru disclosed this during an inspection tour of the NIGERCEM site in Nkalagu alongside a team of Chinese contractors, manufacturers, designers, and engineers who are expected to drive the project.
According to the governor, the decision to build a new cement plant became necessary after efforts to revive the old NIGERCEM factory were confronted with several challenges and bottlenecks.
He revealed that geological studies have confirmed the availability of massive limestone deposits in the area, enough to sustain cement production for decades.
“We have about 50 million tonnes of limestone in Nkalagu and another 23 million tonnes in Effium. Together, these deposits can sustain a cement factory for at least 30 years,” Nwifuru said.
The governor expressed optimism that the new factory would not only transform Ebonyi into a major industrial hub but also help reduce the cost of building materials, making housing and infrastructure development more affordable across the Southeast and Nigeria as a whole.
He emphasized that the project is not driven by politics or personal interests but is part of his administration’s commitment to delivering on its industrialization agenda under the People’s Charter of Needs.
“This project is one of the key promises we made to our people, and we are determined to see it through. It is about creating opportunities, growing the economy, and improving the lives of our citizens,” he stated.
Nwifuru also sought to dispel concerns about ownership and personal gain, insisting that neither he nor any political office holder would acquire shares in the proposed company.
“This is not a politically motivated project. When it is completed, nobody—including myself—will buy shares in it,” he assured.
The governor said the foreign partners involved in the project have given assurances that work would be completed within schedule, paving the way for the realization of Ebonyi’s industrialization vision.
He also acknowledged the support of various stakeholders and commended the Governor of Chukwuma Soludo, for his sustained interest in the revival of the old NIGERCEM facility.
The proposed cement factory has already received significant backing from the state government, which earmarked ₦150 billion in the 2026 budget for its establishment.
For many residents of Nkalagu and surrounding communities, the project represents more than just another government initiative. It offers hope for employment, increased business opportunities, and the return of the town’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s historic cement-producing communities. If successfully delivered, the factory could become a major catalyst for economic growth in Ebonyi State and the Southeast region.
