Edo State has marked a significant milestone in its industrial growth with the launch of a state-of-the-art calcium carbonate production facility in Lampese, located in the Akoko Edo Local Government Area. The event, held on February 8, 2024, was attended by prominent leaders including Hon. Ojiefoh Enaholo, the state’s Commissioner for Mining and Energy, and Hon. Tajudeen Alade Suleiman, the chairman of the Akoko Edo local government. Together with their teams, they celebrated the commencement of this N20 billion investment, which is set to transform the region’s industrial landscape.
This plant, which is designed to produce 200,000 metric tons of coated calcium carbonate annually, will cater to the growing needs of key industries such as paper, plastics, paints, and coatings. The opening of the plant marks an important development not just for Lampese, but for Edo State as a whole, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth strategy.
Osayi Izedonwen, the chairman of Izedon Industries, the company behind this major investment, expressed his commitment to creating a sustainable and impactful industrial project that will not only serve regional markets but also bolster the state’s economic standing.
During the ceremony, Hon. Enaholo emphasized that industrialization is a critical tool for sustainable development. He highlighted the state’s strategy to attract major multinational corporations to the region, specifically mentioning BUA Group and Dangote as examples of successful investments in the Okpella area. He further revealed that the Edo State Government has already begun establishing a mineral processing and analysis center in the region, which is expected to be completed within 90 days, signaling even greater industrial activity in the future.
The calcium carbonate plant is expected to create around 500 jobs directly, with many more opportunities emerging in related sectors. This investment is also anticipated to encourage entrepreneurship and foster a culture of skill development and innovation among the local populace. The plant’s operations will drive economic activity, supporting both local businesses and workers, while also fostering a more dynamic business environment in the area.
The successful launch of this facility is a testament to Edo State’s industrialization efforts, which have been prioritized under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki. The state’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for businesses is evident in its ongoing efforts to attract both national and international companies to invest in its growing industrial sectors. As the plant’s operations ramp up, it is expected to position Lampese as a major hub for industrial activities, further contributing to the state’s economic and industrial transformation.
Moreover, this project highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in driving regional development. The collaborative efforts between the state government, Edo State Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), local communities, and the private sector are crucial in ensuring the long-term success of such initiatives. The plant also symbolizes the state’s focus on creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the region’s overall economic prosperity.
With the groundbreaking now complete, the excitement surrounding the calcium carbonate plant is palpable, as it promises not only economic growth and job creation but also a pathway to improved infrastructure and socio-economic stability for Lampese and the Akoko Edo Local Government Area.
