China to build ethanol refinery in Nigeria

[Richard Akindele]

TO strengthen economic ties between them, the Chinese government yesterday disclosed that it would set up a N33 billion ($250 million) ethanol refinery in Nigeria.




This was disclosed over the weekend by Mr. Elvis Emecheta, Nigeria-China Partner businessman who led a delegation of 43 business groups on a visit to the Solid Minerals Minister, Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili, in Abuja.

Chairman Link-Global Mr. Jonathan Pang, a spokesperson for the group, who represented China Mines Network Corporation, explained that work would begin immediately the Federal Government approved the project.

According to him, the N33 billion had already been secured through a Nexim bank in China. He added that about 40 million metric tons of cassava would be needed for the ethanol production but that in case of inadequacy, maize or sugarcane could be used.

He also disclosed that about 5,000 Shanghai farmers would be brought into the country to begin mechanised farming in Nigeria.

" On the land needed for the project, we are still negotiating. We are taking it to several state governors," he added.

Pang listed the commodities the investors wanted from Nigeria as; coal, copper, iron ore, zinc, lead, crum, molid and clay for bricks. He added that the Shanghai farmers would be brought into Nigeria to introduce a method of making bricks for cheaper houses.

He said that the 43-man delegation reflected the team's readiness to invest in Nigeria's mining industry and commence activities. He added that already, $4 billion had been earmarked for the exploration of oil and gas in Nigeria.

Ezekwesili commended the China business group, noting that the mining sector was now conducive for foreign investors to operate without fear of uncertainties on policy regulation.

According to her, the ministry will today announce the names of companies that qualify for the bidding process in the privatisation exercise of mineral blocs.

She added that the commodities on offer included two blocs of bitumen, seven mineral titles, 10 coals properties and 53 other commodities.

The minister stressed that a new system had been developed in the granting of mining titles and leases, which is the cadastre system.

She added that geological survey has been developed into a database to offer prompt and detailed information for investors.

Source: Florence Oretade, for Guardian Newspaper