Nwifuru to establish cement factory in Nkalagu, earmarks N150bn for project

Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has disclosed plans by his Administration to establish a new cement factory in Nkalagu, citing challenges surrounding the reactivation of the old Nigerian Cement Company (NIGERCEM) as the reason for the decision.

The governor made the disclosure while conducting a team of Chinese investors, contractors, manufacturers and designers around the NIGERCEM premises in Nkalagu, Ishielu Local Government Area.

According to him, preliminary geological assessments confirmed the availability of massive limestone deposits capable of sustaining cement production for decades.

“We have 50 million tonnes of limestone in Nkalagu and another 23 million tonnes in Effium. When combined, these deposits will sustain the factory for a minimum of 30 years,” Nwifuru said.

He explained that the proposed cement plant forms a critical component of his administration’s industrialisation agenda under the People’s Charter of Needs and was not driven by political considerations.

“As a responsive government, the decision to establish this factory is neither politically motivated nor driven by any opaque interest. It is part of the industrialisation component of the People’s Charter of Needs. This is a project we believe must be executed,” he stated.

The governor said the visiting expatriates included manufacturers, designers, builders and contractors who were in the state to assess the limestone deposits and conclude plans for the project.

“We came with manufacturers, designers, builders and contractors. They will see the limestone deposits themselves. We have also been assured by them of the timely completion of this project,” he added.

Nwifuru expressed confidence that the factory would create thousands of jobs, stimulate economic activities and significantly reduce the cost of cement and other building materials across Ebonyi State, the South-East and the country at large.

He further insisted that neither he nor any political office holder would have personal interests in the company upon completion.

“When this project is completed, nobody will buy shares here, including my humble self,” the governor declared.

He also commended stakeholders who have supported efforts to revive industrial activities in Nkalagu and specifically praised the Governor of Anambra State, , for his sustained interest in the reactivation of the old NIGERCEM plant.

The governor noted that the State Government remains committed to transforming Ebonyi into an industrial hub and disclosed that N150 billion was appropriated in the 2026 budget for the establishment of the new cement factory.

The proposed plant is expected to revive Nkalagu’s status as a major cement-producing town and boost industrial development in the South-East region.