The Anambra State Government has revealed plans to privatise its Kaolin Factory as part of efforts to commence full-scale commercial production and unlock the economic potential of the mineral resource. Kaolin, a key raw material used in ceramics, paper coating, medicine, cosmetics, toothpaste, and light bulbs, is abundant in the region but has remained largely underutilised for years.
Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, disclosed the development during a press briefing at the new Government House in Awka following the 8th meeting of the Anambra State Executive Council. He said the decision to privatise the factory followed a reviewed report presented to the council, which showed that previous government interventions had yielded promising results. Mefor explained that privatisation was the most viable path forward to ensure the factory operates profitably and meets modern industrial standards.
Originally established as a pilot project by the Federal Government to harness kaolin deposits in Ukpor, the factory had fallen into disrepair, with outdated equipment and deteriorated infrastructure causing a halt in operations. However, under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the state initiated a broad rehabilitation project led by the Anambra State Solid Minerals Development Company Limited, headed by Prof. Charles Ofoegbu. The revitalisation included refurbishing machinery, acquiring a 3 Rollers mill from China, installing a kiln plant known as a kaolin calciner, setting up a 300kVA high-tension transformer, and adding a large generator to ensure uninterrupted power supply.
The plant is now positioned to process both industrial-grade and pharmaceutical-grade kaolin for various sectors. There are also plans to utilise waste kaolin in the production of fertilisers, further expanding its commercial value.
Dr. Mefor also noted that the Executive Council discussed the upcoming inauguration of the Anambra Country Club, a new recreational facility within Solution Fun City, which was recently commissioned during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the state. In addition, the council reviewed and adopted several measures aimed at strengthening security, driving economic growth, and enhancing the overall welfare of residents.
