In a bold stride to energize Ogun State’s industrial transformation, the state government has entered two landmark partnerships—with Brazil’s Ambar Energia and Morocco’s Confederation of General Employers (CGEM)—to enhance sustainable power generation and economic growth.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, speaking at the recent MoU signings, emphasized that the initiatives are designed to tackle the state’s power challenges and unlock new levels of industrial productivity.
“Our government believes in enabling private sector growth. We’re here to create the right environment for businesses to thrive because the government doesn’t do business—it facilitates it,” the governor said.
Abiodun disclosed that the collaboration with Ambar Energia, one of Brazil’s top five energy firms, would see the development of multiple power plants across Ogun’s senatorial districts. He revealed that an existing plant’s output is being increased from 4MW to 30MW in its first phase.
“This is merely a drop in the ocean,” he noted. “Our goal is to replicate such captive power plants across the state.”
Marcelo Zanatta, President of Ambar Energia, reaffirmed the company’s commitment: “We’re ready to provide sustainable energy solutions that will support Ogun’s industrial hubs and economic expansion.”
Meanwhile, the partnership with CGEM of Morocco is aimed at drawing from Morocco’s energy, agricultural, and industrial expertise.
“We want to learn from you how you perfected hydro, solar, and gas energy—presenting the right mix that brings down the cost of energy,” Abiodun told the Moroccan delegation. “Morocco has become a leader in solar power, and we want to replicate that success here.”
The governor also highlighted efforts to attract Morocco’s thriving fertilizer and automobile industries, aiming to position Ogun as a manufacturing powerhouse in Sub-Saharan Africa.
“Being an industrial state, we discussed manufacturing and how to collaborate with Moroccan firms to bring the automobile industry to Ogun,” he said.
Ali Zerouali of CGEM expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We’re excited to strengthen economic ties and explore joint ventures in agro-food, education, and industrial development.”
Further emphasizing Ogun’s readiness for large-scale investment, Governor Abiodun unveiled plans for a massive agro-processing zone and Africa’s largest garment factory, both near the Gateway International Airport, which will require up to 300MW of electricity.
In a related development, the state is also set to host a multi-million-dollar recycling plant by Neveah Ltd in Mowe.
The facility, expected to generate over $150 million annually, will employ more than 500 people and export aluminum and copper ingots to Asia.
“With abundant resources like gold, lithium, and limestone, Ogun State is positioning itself as Nigeria’s industrial capital,” Abiodun stated.
Jose Batista of Brazil’s JBJ, JBS, and SEARRA Group also visited to explore investment in large-scale farming. The governor noted Ogun’s 12,000 square kilometers of arable land and over 200,000 registered farmers as proof of the state’s agricultural strength.
With its strategic location, extensive infrastructure, and business-friendly climate, Governor Abiodun assured that Ogun remains open for investment and industrial partnerships.
