Aspira Nigeria Limited has committed an initial $50 million to construct a new manufacturing plant at the Ogun Industrial Park. According to Punch, the facility will be developed jointly with the Lee Group of Companies. The announcement was made by Abass Jaafar, the group’s director, during a groundbreaking ceremony held on Saturday. This development marks a significant expansion of the company’s operational footprint within Nigeria.
Jaafar stated that the investment is designed to enhance domestic production capabilities and generate employment. He explained that the new site will allow the firm to manufacture goods locally, thereby improving its ability to serve customers throughout Nigeria and the broader West African region. He emphasized that the location was selected for its strategic value as a distribution hub. Jaafar noted that the $50 million figure represents only the beginning of their investment plans in the area.
The company has operated in Nigeria since 2009, initially establishing its base in Kano. It has since grown into a leading producer of soaps and detergents. Its products, including the Viva Plus detergent brand, are widely used by households across the country. The decision to invest heavily in Ogun State, while other multinational firms have reduced their presence in the country, demonstrates Aspira’s long-term confidence in the national economy.
Regarding its workforce, Jaafar provided details on the company’s current employment impact. He reported that Aspira employs roughly 5,000 people in Kano. Additionally, its operations support approximately 1,500 jobs in Ikorodu and 1,000 in Ibadan. He further indicated that the new Agbara facility is expected to create an additional 500 positions once operations begin. He highlighted that these roles support many Nigerian families.
The ceremony was attended by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Senator John Enoh, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment. Jaafar praised the state government for fostering an environment that encourages private sector growth. He credited the state’s industrial policies as key factors in attracting business investment to the region.