Former Abia State Governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu, has signed a major energy cooperation agreement with China’s GCL Group to develop lithium and power projects in Abia State. The deal was sealed in Dubai between Kalu’s Swiber Africa Group and GCL Chairman, Zhu Gongshan.
Under the agreement, both parties will collaborate on lithium resource development, clean energy systems and industrial value-chain expansion. The partnership aligns with Nigeria’s energy transition goals and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
GCL said the project will support Nigeria’s Presidential Power Initiative through the development of 3GW gas-fired power plants, 4GW of wind and solar projects, alongside hydropower and grid upgrades. The firm also plans to deploy advanced smart energy management systems to improve efficiency and reliability.
A key highlight is the planned development of a lithium carbonate processing facility in Abia State. This move aims to shift Nigeria from raw lithium exports to higher-value local processing, boosting jobs, exports and industrial growth.
The partners described the deal as a strategic step towards strengthening Nigeria–China energy cooperation.
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