Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that will attract investments, stimulate industrial growth and create more employment opportunities for residents.
Fubara made the commitment on Friday at Alode, Onne, in Eleme Local Government Area, while commissioning the manufacturing plant of Solewant Specialty Protective Coatings and Paints Limited (SSPC).
The facility, which produces decorative, industrial and specialty protective coatings, was unveiled alongside the company’s modified range of paint and coating solutions designed to serve the oil and gas industry and other sectors.
Represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Barrister Sonny Ewule, the governor said the state’s ongoing investment in infrastructure was deliberate and aimed at providing businesses with the conditions required to thrive.
He described the decision by Solewant Group to establish the facility in Rivers as evidence of the peaceful and investment-friendly atmosphere in the state.
“I thank the board, management and staff of Solewant Specialty Protective Coatings and Paints Limited for choosing Rivers State as your industrial hub for citing this gigantic state-of-the-art paint manufacturing plant,” Fubara said.
“It is a testament that Rivers State is peaceful and safe for investments.”
The governor urged other Nigerian and international investors to follow Solewant’s example by expanding their operations in the state.
He said the Rivers State Government was prepared to collaborate with the company in manufacturing, local content development and industrialisation, noting that such partnerships would strengthen economic activities while providing jobs for young people.
“This partnership would not only expand business activities in the State but also create job opportunities for our teaming youths,” he said.
Fubara also disclosed that his administration was working with relevant agencies to improve electricity supply in the state, with the objective of reducing energy costs for businesses.
The commissioning attracted government officials, industry leaders, technical partners, regulators, contractors, distributors and other stakeholders in the coatings and oil and gas sectors.
The Solewant Group’s Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Solomon Ewanehi, described the project as a product of investment in research, technology and product development, aimed at meeting international standards and the growing needs of the oil and gas industry.
He emphasise greater local manufacturing and increased participation of indigenous companies in the oil and gas value chain.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, who delivered the keynote address, said the Federal Government would continue to support indigenous companies that create jobs and strengthen local content.
The plant is expected to contribute to local production, employment generation and industrial development while reducing reliance on imported coating products.
