The Bayelsa State Government has entered into a partnership with Jampur Group, a Dubai-based conglomerate, for the establishment of solar panel and smart metering production plants in the state.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), valued at $3 million, was signed on Thursday, September 4, at the Government House, Yenagoa. The investment will be wholly financed by Jampur Group, with no financial obligation on the part of the state government.
Governor Douye Diri, who witnessed the signing, described Jampur as a credible partner with proven achievements both within and outside Nigeria.
He noted that the factories would not only serve Bayelsa but also meet demands across the Niger Delta, Nigeria, and the wider Gulf of Guinea region.
Diri highlighted that the initiative would make solar panels and smart meters readily available locally, reducing the need for Nigerians to source them abroad.
He added that smart meters would help eliminate frequent disputes between electricity consumers and distribution companies by enabling automatic disconnection for non-payment.
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The governor urged the Ministry of Power to ensure that Bayelsa youths are trained and actively involved in the project. He further assured the company of his administration’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for the investment to thrive.
Reaffirming Jampur’s long-standing relationship with the state, Diri recalled that the firm had supplied and installed the recently acquired 60MW gas turbines for Bayelsa.
Chairman of Jampur Group, Mohammed Shafiq, expressed optimism about the partnership, stating that the agreement covers three projects: a smart electric meter plant, a solar panel production factory, and a fertiliser blending facility. He disclosed that work on the metering plant would begin before the end of the year.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of the Bayelsa State Electricity Company, Engr. Olice Kemenanabo, described the agreement as a landmark step in line with the Diri administration’s ASSURED Prosperity Agenda.
The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Biriyai Dambo, signed on behalf of the state government, while Bello Abdulahi represented Jampur Group.
