Jonathan pledges support for expansion of Ashaka cement in Gombe

From David Hassan, Gombe

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has reiterated government commitment that his administration would do anything possible to ensure that the new line production capacity expansion of Ashaka cement is maintained.

The President who was represented by the Minister of Trade and Investment Olusegun Aganga stated this on Friday in Gombe during the unveiling of 2.5 million tons new line production capacity expansion of Ashaka cement PLC.

Performing the function, President Jonathan emphasized that the new line production capacity expansion of Ashaka cement would help to promote the nation economy, adding that before the end of this year, Nigeria would be the largest cement producer in the world.

According to him, the expansion of the company will not only benefit north-east region but entire nation and commended the effort of the management of the company which he said the 2.5 million tons production capacity would not only boost the nation economy but it would create more job for youths in the area.

Also speaking at the event, Governor Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo who was represented by his deputy Mr. Thaanda Jason Rubainu said government will do everything possible to ensure adequate security for the company in order to operate in a conducive environment.

While commending the company, Dankwambo promise that his administration will contribute immensely for the development of the company which according to him will produce raw material to enable mass production.

Speaking earlier, the chairman Board of Directors Ashaka cement Alhaji Umaru Kwairanga noted that the company had estimated over N100 billion for the building of coal-fire captive power plant (CPP),stressing that a 64 MW capacity generation plant would also be built at the cost of N20 billion in order to ensure sufficient power.

He reiterated that the company operates an open door policy to citizens which according to him had employed qualified candidates including the physical challenge, adding that training and career development opportunities are available to employees.

Speaking further, the chairman explained that the company is committed to improve the living condition of the people which he said the company has embarked on a building project to relocate villages who were affected at quarry area.