To strengthen Nigeria’s local manufacturing capacity and reduce reliance on imported industrial and decorative coatings, the Solewant Group is set to commission its Specialty Protective Coatings and Paints (SSPC & Paints) manufacturing plant in Alode-Eleme, Rivers State this Friday.

The company said the investment aligns with efforts to deepen local content participation in Nigeria’s industrial value chain and expand indigenous manufacturing capabilities.

The facility, located within the Solewant Industrial Park, is designed to produce decorative and protective coating solutions for residential, commercial, industrial, marine and offshore applications, targeting key sectors including oil and gas, petrochemicals and construction.

Speaking ahead of the commissioning, Group Chief Executive Officer of Solewant Group, Solomon Ewanehi, described the project as another milestone in the company’s drive to build sustainable industrial capacity.

According to him, the plant reflects Solewant’s commitment to investing in technology, developing local expertise and supporting Nigeria’s industrial growth.

“The commissioning of SSPC & Paints demonstrates our commitment to investing in technology, building local capacity and delivering solutions that enhance Nigeria’s industrial competitiveness,” he said.

Managing Director of SSPC & Paints Ltd, Matthew Aganren, said the facility would manufacture a broad range of decorative and protective coatings for steel, concrete and wood surfaces used in oil and gas installations, refineries, marine assets, industrial facilities and residential buildings.

He noted that the plant would produce products under the Solguard and Novaguard brands, including epoxy coatings, polyurethane coatings, zinc-rich primers and other high-performance protective coatings that meet international standards.

Aganren added that the project would contribute to technology transfer, skills development and job creation while positioning Nigeria to compete more effectively in the African coatings market.

He said the company intends to leverage over two decades of experience in industrial solutions to strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported products.

The commissioning ceremony is expected to attract government officials, oil and gas executives, industry leaders, development partners, members of the diplomatic community and other stakeholders.

Founded in 2000, Solewant Group operates across pipe coating, protective coatings and paints, steel pipe manufacturing, industrial fabrication, engineering services and technical manpower development.