By Terna Chikpa
The Taraba State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Xuzhou Construction Machinery Group (XCMG) to explore strategic cooperation in solid minerals development, infrastructure expansion, heavy equipment supply and technical capacity building.
A statement signed by the state Commissioner for Information, Barr. Zainab Usman Jalingo, said the partnership was aimed at providing access to cost-effective, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly machinery, including electric-powered equipment that could reduce operational costs in mining activities.
The agreement also covers the supply of modern machinery and equipment for infrastructure development, mining operations and sanitation services.
According to the statement, the MoU provides for potential collaboration in after-sales support and technical services, including equipment maintenance, assembly and commissioning, spare parts supply, warranty support and specialised technical assistance.
The statement read, “The agreement, signed by Governor Agbu Kefas and XCMG Vice President, Mr Hanson Liu, followed a high-level working visit by the governor and his delegation to the company’s headquarters in Xuzhou, China, from October 15 to 20, 2026.
“The visit was aimed at establishing a framework for collaboration that could strengthen Taraba State’s capacity to harness its mineral resources, improve infrastructure delivery and attract investment into key sectors of the state’s economy.”
The commissioner said the parties also intended to explore the establishment of local warehouses, distribution offices, repair centres and other service facilities in Taraba State to support the effective deployment and maintenance of equipment.
The proposed arrangements would also include the deployment of local commercial representatives and the provision of specialised personnel, such as mechanics, electricians and welders.
Jalingo said a key component of the partnership was the exploration of financing options for the state’s road network development programme, which could provide an avenue for discussions on infrastructure financing and the possible application of XCMG’s equipment and technical expertise to road construction and related projects.
“The MoU also outlines plans to organise a Chinese business and investment delegation to Taraba State, a move that could strengthen economic ties, expose investors to the state’s opportunities and encourage greater participation by international companies in its development priorities,” the statement added.
The commissioner said the parties also intended to collaborate on human resource development through training programmes designed to build technical expertise and strengthen the capacity of local personnel to operate, maintain and service modern machinery.
The statement noted that Taraba, with its solid mineral resources and broader economic potential, was seeking strategic partnerships capable of translating its natural endowments into sustainable economic growth.
It added that cooperation with an international construction machinery company such as XCMG could provide access to equipment, technical knowledge and investment networks needed to advance the state’s development goals.
However, the statement stressed that the anticipated benefits would depend on the successful development and implementation of specific projects.
“The MoU establishes a framework for exploring these areas of cooperation. The realisation of its anticipated benefits will depend on subsequent project agreements, financing arrangements and implementation plans developed by the parties,” it read.
The commissioner also quoted Governor Kefas as expressing appreciation to XCMG’s leadership for the warm reception and productive engagement, while commending the company’s production capacity and technological capabilities.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging strategic international partnerships to accelerate economic diversification, infrastructure development and the responsible exploitation of the state’s natural resources.
The Taraba delegation was received by XCMG Vice President Hanson Liu, alongside Han Biao, Assistant General Manager for the West Africa Region; Pan Dong, Deputy General Manager of XCMG Nigeria; and other senior executives of the company.
