NASENI Extends Invitation to Investors for Local Renewable Energy Solutions

Dr. Bashir Gwandu, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has extended an invitation to potential investors who are enthusiastic about partnering with the agency to enhance the local manufacturing and adoption of renewable energy solutions, such as lithium batteries. This call was made during a meeting with a business delegation from LEMI Technology in Shenzhen, China. NASENI actively seeks collaboration with investors who share a keen interest in advancing the production and implementation of sustainable energy solutions within the country.

Dr. Gwandu emphasized that NASENI is ready to forge partnerships with international companies interested in establishing their industries in Nigeria, with the aim of initiating local manufacturing of renewable energy solutions, electric vehicle components, and other capital goods. By doing so, NASENI seeks to create job opportunities and reduce Nigeria's reliance on foreign goods, which burdens the country's foreign exchange reserves.

Advancing Solar Panel Production and Synergy

While acknowledging NASENI's significant contributions in solar panel production, Dr. Gwandu revealed that the agency intends to attract solar cell manufacturing to enhance synergy with its ongoing efforts in solar panel assembly.

 In line with this vision, NASENI has initiated discussions with various companies worldwide, aiming to foster partnerships for local production of lithium-based end-products within Nigeria. This departure from the conventional practice of exporting raw materials for processing holds the potential to bridge technological gaps, cease technology imports, and promote local production, all contributing to the nation's technological growth.

Empowering Electric Vehicles and Charging Infrastructure

NASENI envisions a future where electric vehicles (EVs) thrive in Nigeria, and to realize this goal, the agency plans to collaborate with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC). This collaboration will promote the development and production of electric vehicles, including the conversion of existing vehicles to electric variants instead of starting from scratch. 

Furthermore, NASENI is engaged in discussions with various stakeholders to facilitate the installation of electric vehicle charging stations along major roads across the country. Such efforts aim to create a robust electric mobility ecosystem and encourage sustainable transportation solutions.

Open Invitation to Global Investors

Dr. Gwandu extends an open invitation to investors from around the world, urging them to consider Nigeria as an ideal destination for business. He encourages foreign partners to establish local production facilities, promising them support and an enabling investment environment. Highlighting the government's enthusiasm, Dr. Gwandu expressed that the Federal Government would welcome the first company to approach NASENI with proposals for Lithium battery production and establish their factories in Nigeria. He also suggested that NASENI and LEMI Technology explore possible areas of collaboration in the production of lithium batteries, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations while taking Nigeria's unique environmental factors into consideration.

LEMI Technology: Looking to Partner

Ms. Joyce Chen, the founder of LEMI Technology, expressed her company's readiness to collaborate with NASENI and invest in Nigeria. LEMI Technology is eager to cultivate a mutually beneficial relationship with NASENI and the Nigerian government. The visiting delegation included Mr. Rocky Hu, Chief Investment Officer; Ms. Biju Yao, Chief Financial Officer; Ms. Monica Liang, Oversea Business Director; and Engineer Mr. Lucia Peng. Mr. Xie Feng, CEO of LEMI Technology, provided further insight into the visit, emphasizing the company's willingness to establish a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NASENI. This MoU would focus on renewable energy initiatives, encompassing solar and television panels, inverters, and battery production.

With NASENI's drive for collaborative investments, Nigeria is poised to unlock its renewable energy potential. The agency's commitment to local production and technology development, combined with partnerships from global investors, will pave the way for a sustainable and prosperous future in Nigeria's energy landscape.