By Khalid Idris Doya
The Bauchi state government is considering a proposal by Arewa Investment and Management Limited to revive the former Steyr Automotive Assembly Plant in the state for the production of electric tricycles.
State deputy governor Auwal Mohammed Jatau disclosed this on Thursday when he led senior government officials to a meeting with the management and representatives of the company in Bauchi.
Jatau said the proposed investment could provide an opportunity to revive the long-dormant industrial facility while creating employment opportunities, developing local technical skills and strengthening the state's industrial base.
He said the government attached great importance to the revival of dormant industrial assets and the attraction of productive investments capable of contributing to the state's economic development.
"The Government attaches great importance to reviving dormant industrial assets, attracting productive investments, creating employment, developing local skills and strengthening the industrial base of Bauchi State," Jatau said.
The deputy governor, however, said the government would undertake a comprehensive assessment of the proposal before taking a decision on the project.
He said the assessment would cover the company’s investment capacity, financing arrangements, technical plans, proposed production capacity and the timeline for rehabilitating and commencing operations at the facility.
Jatau also directed the company to provide details of its proposed arrangement with the state government, including whether the project would be implemented through a lease, concession, partnership or any other appropriate framework.
He added that the government would examine the company’s plans for employment generation, skills development, local content and the nature of support required from the state.
The deputy governor assured the investors that the Bauchi State Government remained open to credible and viable investment proposals capable of contributing to the state’s economic growth.
"Where proposals are found suitable, Government will provide the necessary institutional support within the law and established procedures," he said.
The proposed project is expected to involve the rehabilitation and utilisation of the former Steyr facility for the assembly of electric tricycles, subject to the outcome of the government’s assessment and agreement on an appropriate engagement framework.
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