The Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Hon. Abubakar Bawa Bwari, has revealed government’s plans to grow the local production of marbles, granite and tiles used in housing finish.
Making the revelation during a tour of OFL Fujian Stones Marble and Dimension Stones factory in Mararaba, Nasarawa State, he assured that any organization that had demonstrated the kind of progress witnessed at the company would be encouraged through the facilities that would be available for sector players’ access.
He said “We have been giving all our local investors moral support, we want to start giving them financial support, to enable them increase their capacity and productivity. This is a good example. We can attest to the significant progress this company has made since our first visit last year.
“Many of such serious investors would benefit from the intervention fund and the world bank loan, once they apply and meet all requirements. Through this we hope to bridge the importation gap and work towards self sufficiency.
Earlier in his remarks, the Managing Director of Fujian Stones, Engr. Makoji Aduku, attributed the success of the company to the enabling environment created by the Ministry of Mines and Steel Development for local investors and mining operators.
Another reason for the success is the sincerity of the Chinese partners who brought in state of the art technology and machinery and a well trained workforce which he said could replace the expatriates in the near future.
Business Hilights recalls that tiling remains one of the fastest moving consumer goods in the housing delivery sector as modern homes are now more marbled and tiled than before.
