As part of efforts to expand its operations in Nigeria and the African continent, Longrich International laid the foundation of its $20 million research institute factory at the Lekki Free Trade, Zone (LFTZ), Lekki, Lagos at the weekend.
Managing Director of Longrich International, Africa, Alex Jia, said that Longrich will build over 400,000 square meters production factory in LFTZ, which is also the very first Chinese factory of Longrich outside China, for the production of healthcare, daily cosmetics and detergents products, which will provide a comprehensive supply chain and production guarantees service and customer clearance support in Nigeria and the whole of the African market.
Jia said: “Building the factory in Nigeria is an important step for us to implement the national One Belt One Road strategy as a Chinese national brand, and create the new opportunity for overseas marketing, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturer (ODM) development.
He noted that the first batch of investment from Longrich will be $20 million, which will be used to build production factory, offices, warehouse and accommodations. It will become the only daily cover and service the African market”.
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunnmi Ambode, while speaking at the event, reassured investors of his administration’s commitment toward providing adequate security infrastructure for investors in LFTZ. The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye, said the state government is elated with the investment of the company and promised to do everything to ensure its succeess, especially in the area of security in and around the LFTZ.
He said, “we appreciate you for choosing Nigeria and Lagos in particular as the first country in Africa to set up your factory. We will give you maximum support for everything you need to succeed.”
Chairman, LFTZ, Abiodun Dabiri, congratulated Longrich International for the groundbreaking ceremony, noting that the zone is an investment platform to all countries in the world and has attracted a lot of companies from various sectors in the country.
“It will continue to strengthen the partnership between Nigeria and China as this is the first country or company that will set up a factory in Nigeria.”