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KANO, Nigeria (NAN) - The government of Kano state has announced that it will secure more than $10 billion in investments for renewable energy and solid minerals development through its collaboration with renowned Moroccan firms over the next five years.
The state government also mentioned that it is preparing to sign several investment Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the Kingdom of Morocco.
This was contained in a statement released on Sunday in Kano by Sunusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, the media aide to Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf.
Dawakin-Tofa stated that the agreements will concentrate on renewable energy, agriculture, and commerce, aligning with the state government's efforts to revitalize its economy.
This development follows a high-level investment mission to Morocco led by the governor, during which the delegation conducted strategic discussions with key Moroccan entities, such as the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN), the Moroccan Agency for Africa (OCP Africa), and the Casablanca Chamber of Commerce.
He further remarked that the agreements would delve into areas including investor identification, financing strategies, and innovative technologies for energy storage and efficient distribution, especially for industrial applications in Kano.
Dawakin-Tofa highlighted that the Casablanca Chamber of Commerce, recognized as one of Africa’s prominent private sector platforms, expressed interest in partnering with the state in the realms of renewable energy and solid minerals development.
"This partnership is anticipated to enhance the state’s economy and aid in achieving the goal of attracting $10 billion in investments over the upcoming five years, in accordance with the state’s strategic investment blueprint," he noted
He added that the delegation also engaged with OCP Africa, one of the largest fertilizer manufacturers globally. "OCP was receptive to the partnership, suggesting new agricultural development initiatives, which encompass fertilizer blending facilities, advanced supply chain systems, and assistance for smallholder farmers through modern agricultural techniques.
The visit signifies a significant breakthrough in the state’s ambition to establish global partnerships that can expedite industrial expansion, transition to clean energy, and pursue sustainable agricultural development."
Dawakin-Tofa concluded by stating that one notable result of the visit is a proposed collaboration with MASEN, which consists of technical partnerships aimed at aiding Kano’s transition to clean energy.
He mentioned that MASEN, recognized for overseeing one of Africa's largest solar power installations in Ouarzazate that generates 500 megawatts, has committed to sharing its expertise, insights, and providing technical assistance for Kano’s Light-Up Kano Initiative, which seeks to produce 2,000 megawatts of solar energy within five years.
