Governor Dauda Lawal Woos Chinese Giant for Zamfara Solar Projects
Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has held a high-level investment roundtable with GCL Group, a leading Chinese energy conglomerate, as part of his ongoing investment and trade mission to China.
The meeting, which also had the Governor of Nasarawa State in attendance, focused on exploring large-scale solar power investments in Zamfara and strengthening economic cooperation between the state and Chinese investors.
GCL Group expressed interest in developing solar energy projects in Zamfara, alongside potential partnerships in technology transfer, local content development and workforce capacity building.
The discussions are significant for Zamfara, which has considerable solar energy potential that remains largely untapped. The proposed investments could provide more reliable electricity for households, businesses and industries while supporting the state’s industrialisation drive.
To move the discussions towards implementation, both parties agreed to establish a joint technical working group. The group will examine feasibility studies, project structuring, financing options and regulatory requirements for the proposed projects.
GCL Group is also expected to send an investment and technical mission to Zamfara for on-the-ground assessments and further discussions with relevant stakeholders.
Governor Lawal’s engagement with the Chinese energy company forms part of his broader strategy to attract foreign direct investment and diversify Zamfara’s economy beyond its traditional dependence on agriculture and mining.
The administration said the proposed solar projects could create jobs, develop technical skills and stimulate local businesses through increased participation in the energy supply chain.
Reliable electricity could also support the expansion of existing businesses and attract new investments in manufacturing, processing and other industries.
The discussions align with Nigeria’s broader efforts to expand renewable energy and strengthen electricity access as part of its energy transition agenda.
The Zamfara-GCL engagement could therefore provide a model for attracting large-scale renewable energy investment at the subnational level if the ongoing discussions result in concrete projects.
Governor Lawal’s China mission is expected to continue with engagements involving potential investors in mining, agriculture and infrastructure as the state seeks to deepen international partnerships and accelerate economic development.
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