Sokoto State, situated in north-west Nigeria, has received fresh investment in the form of a second cement factory.

The new factory, Northrich Cement Limited, is going to be constructed at a cost of N42 billion. It is expected that 1.5 million tonnes of cement will be produced every year.

The facility is a joint venture between the China-based Zhonghao Overseas Construction Engineering Limited and its Nigerian partner, Loratt Capital Limited. Zhonghao will be the major shareholder and technical partner with 55% equity, Loratt will have a 25% stake, while the local population of Sokoto State and other Nigerians will hold 20%.

Sokoto State was chosen as the location for the factory because of its vast limestone deposits. The state is also home to the Cement Company of Northern Nigeria who has been operating in the area for many years.

Construction work on the factory is expected to commence in November this year and should last three years.