In a landmark collaboration, Israeli investors and Nigerian entrepreneur Prince Tonye Princewill are set to establish a multi-million-dollar solar-powered farm in Rivers State, Nigeria. This ambitious project aims to create jobs for over 2,000 youths and boost agriculture and food security in the state.
The farms will be located in Eleme local government area and various communities within the Kalabari Kingdom. Princewill, speaking with journalists in Port Harcourt, emphasized that land for the project is already available in both Eleme and Kalabari. A significant component of the project includes a low-cost housing estate designed to address housing shortages for thousands of residents.
Princewill highlighted the importance of peace in Rivers State, noting that negative perceptions about the region are hindering investment opportunities. He stated, “With the solar farm, we are achieving multiple goals. We are leveraging the land to create sustainable farms and bringing in substantial investments.”
The plan involves significant investments from Israel, which will be managed by local partners after 15 years. “We have the land ready; we just need the government to ensure the area’s security,” Princewill added.
In addition to agricultural development, part of the land will be used for low-cost housing. The housing estate will not only solve housing issues but also benefit from the power generated by the solar farm, making it an integrated and comprehensive project.
Princewill emphasized the project’s broad impact: “We don’t need the national grid to power the farms. This initiative is about employment, empowerment, and reducing food prices. Israel has transformed deserts into fertile farming land, and we are working with experts to replicate that success here.”
However, he stressed that peace and security are crucial for the project’s success. “Our biggest challenge is convincing people that these investments are viable despite the region’s negative portrayal in the media. Government support is essential to ensure the project’s security and integrity,” he explained.
The project promises to employ over 2,000 people on the farm alone, with additional empowerment opportunities in other areas. “The potential is enormous. We are prepared to deliver, and with the right support, this can be a revolutionary development for Rivers State,” Princewill concluded.
