by crossriverwatch admin
President Goodluck Jonathan today said in Calabar that a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed for the construction of a railway line from Lagos to Calabar. The President promised that the rail line will be extended to the Obudu Ranch Resort.
The President was speaking at the ground breaking ceremony of the 2.5 million metric tons cement line put in place by UNICEM in Mfamosing, Akamkpa local government area in Cross River State.
Jonathan described the occasion as another milestone in the history of cement production in Nigeria, saying it was in line with the government’s policy designed to ensure self sufficiency in cement production.
The President expressed appreciation to the company for their strides in increasing cement production in country, applauding the efficiency of the company’s management for the new factory coming, just five years after the company’s first 2.5 million metric tonnes plant in 2009.
According to the President, “Today’s event by UniCem is yet another milestone for the company, the industry and the nation at large as this event brings additional 2.5 million metrics to the nations existing capacity.
“I am particularly impressed that after 5 years of inauguration of the first Line, we are gathered here today to break grounds for additional 2.5 million metric tons per annum cement Line.
“I am also very delighted, that this investment will create additional jobs for the teeming youths and contribute to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in addition to the various impacts enumerated as benefits of the first 2.5 million metric tons.
“I am equally delighted because this investment will address cement demand in the future given the estimation that Nigeria’s consumption per kiloton will grow at an annual rate of over 50% by 2020 and therefore the need for sustenance of our self-sufficiency in cement production.
“Government will continue to support the growth of the Manufacturing sector which today is the backbone of Nigeria’s economic growth as part of the transformation agenda through formulation of friendly business policies to drive the desired investment in Nigeria.”
Jonathan, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo, also said the 550 Megawatts Independent Power Project, IPP plant in Calabar will soon be commissioned.
The President also confirmed what his transport minister said a few days ago that the contract for the dredging of the Calabar seaport has been signed.
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