The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) is taking a bold step towards reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign goods and strengthening its renewable energy sector.
In a recent address at the NASENI headquarters in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Dr. Bashir Gwandu, called on investors to collaborate with the agency in the local production and domestication of Lithium batteries and other renewable energy solutions. This move aims to create job opportunities and alleviate the pressure on the country’s foreign exchange caused by the importation of foreign goods.
Dr. Gwandu highlighted that NASENI has already made significant strides in solar panel production. The agency plans to further enhance its capabilities by attracting solar cell manufacturing, thereby bolstering synergy with existing solar panel assembly efforts. NASENI has also been engaging with various international companies to explore partnerships for local production of lithium-based end-products, as opposed to exporting raw materials for processing abroad.
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Domestication of Technologies and Capital Goods Production
The core vision of NASENI is to bridge technological gaps between Nigeria and other countries and encourage domestic production to replace imports.
To realize this vision, NASENI is working closely with the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC) to promote the development and production of electric vehicles (EVs). Additionally, discussions are underway with stakeholders to establish electric vehicle charging stations on major roads throughout the country.
Dr. Gwandu extended an invitation to both local and international investors, urging them to establish their industries in Nigeria. NASENI promises to provide support and a conducive investment environment for those willing to produce locally. The Nigerian government is eager to welcome the first company that expresses interest, particularly in the production of lithium batteries, as the agency is ready to form partnerships with such ventures.
Collaboration with LEMI Technology
NASENI welcomed a business delegation from LEMI Technology, a company based in Shenzhen, China, to explore potential collaborations. The founder of LEMI Technology, Ms. Joyce Chen, expressed the company’s willingness to invest in Nigeria and forge a fruitful relationship with NASENI and the Nigerian government.
The delegation also included key members such as the Chief Investment Officer, Mr. Rocky Hu, the Chief Financial Officer, Ms. Biju Yao, Oversea Business Director, Ms. Monica Liang, and Engineer Mr. Lucia Peng.
LEMI Technology’s Role in Nigeria
LEMI Technology has been operating in Nigeria since 2018, providing renewable energy products to over 200,000 Nigerian households and creating employment opportunities for locals. The company intends to collaborate with NASENI on renewable energy projects, particularly in the production of solar and television panels, inverters, and lithium batteries.
NASENI holds the distinction of being Nigeria’s sole purpose-built agency with a specific mandate in capital goods research, production, and reverse engineering. Its focus areas include engineering materials, industrial and analytical chemical materials, scientific equipment and components, engineering equipment, engineering designs and standardization, and power equipment.
NASENI’s Push for Lithium Battery Production
In an effort to encourage local end-product production, NASENI has been engaging with key exporters of lithium within Nigeria. The agency advised them to invite their off-takers from around the world, who manufacture lithium batteries, to invest in Nigeria’s end-product production. Nigeria possesses significant raw materials, including phosphate, making it a viable destination for battery production.
NASENI aims to limit the export of raw lithium and promote the processing of these raw materials into finished products within the country.
As NASENI continues its efforts to bridge technological gaps and encourage local production, its partnership with LEMI Technology holds great promise for the renewable energy sector. Together, they envision a future where Nigeria becomes a key player in the production of lithium batteries and other renewable energy solutions, promoting economic growth, job creation, and energy sustainability.