By Henry Agbu,  Jalingo

The Taraba State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group (XCMG) to explore collaboration in solid minerals development, infrastructure expansion, equipment supply and technical capacity building.

The agreement was signed on October 18, 2026, by Governor Agbu Kefas and XCMG Vice President, Mr. Hanson Liu, during a working visit by the governor and his delegation to the company’s headquarters in Xuzhou, China, from October 15 to 20.

The partnership is aimed at establishing a framework for cooperation that could enhance the development of Taraba’s mineral resources, improve infrastructure delivery and attract investment into key sectors of the state’s economy.

During the visit, Kefas commended XCMG for its production capacity and technological expertise, expressing appreciation for the company’s reception and the productive discussions held with its management.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships to accelerate economic diversification, infrastructure development and the responsible exploitation of the state’s natural resources.

The governor was accompanied on the visit by Major General Solomon Udounwa (rtd.), Senior Adviser/Consultant; Mr. Easah Malik Mohammed, Mining Expert/Consultant; Mr. Alhassan Ibrahim Baba, Consultant; and Mr. Pan Weibing, Liaison Officer.

The XCMG delegation was led by Liu and included Han Biao, Assistant General Manager for the West Africa Region; Pan Dong, Deputy General Manager of XCMG Nigeria; and other senior executives.

Under the MoU, both parties will explore opportunities for the supply of modern, cost-effective and energy-efficient machinery for mining, road construction, infrastructure development and sanitation services. The proposed cooperation also includes environmentally friendly and electric-powered equipment aimed at reducing operational costs.

The agreement further provides for potential collaboration in after-sales services, equipment maintenance, assembly, commissioning, spare parts supply, warranty support and specialised technical assistance.

To facilitate equipment deployment and maintenance, the parties intend to explore the establishment of warehouses, distribution offices, repair centres and other service facilities in Taraba State. The arrangements may also include the deployment of local commercial representatives and technical personnel such as mechanics, electricians and welders.

Another key area of the proposed partnership is the exploration of financing options for the state’s road network development programme, which could pave the way for further discussions on infrastructure financing and the application of XCMG’s equipment and technical expertise to road construction projects.

The MoU also outlines plans to organise a Chinese business and investment delegation to Taraba State to showcase investment opportunities and encourage greater participation by international companies in the state’s development.

In addition, both parties intend to explore training programmes to strengthen the technical capacity of local personnel in operating, maintaining and servicing modern machinery.

The agreement provides a framework for further cooperation, with the implementation of specific projects expected to depend on subsequent agreements, financing arrangements and detailed implementation plans.

The proposed partnership is expected to create opportunities for investment, technology transfer and skills development, while supporting Taraba State’s efforts to harness its mineral resources and accelerate infrastructure development.