The firm said that the trained workers would add value to the Nigerian economy. The company added that it planned to double its strength in the next 12 months. Managing Director of the company, Joseph Offorjama said this in Ilorin at the commissioning of Forgo battery assembly facility.

Mr. Offorjama said the company, with its increased electronic features and security tracking system, would offer quality products that are capable of powering modern automobiles.

He said, "The general increase in battery demand by automobiles and machines can only be met by a proven and tested battery brand with extreme strength to suit the Nigerian climate."

He decried Nigerians' taste for imported products, adding that "it is disturbing to note that virtually all the batteries being used in Nigeria are all imported due to the challenge that only one company assembles automotive battery in the country; coupled with the preference of Nigerians for imported products.

"This trend has also contributed to the present downward trend in the economy as we import so many things that could be made here in Nigeria, including automotive batteries.

"However, due to the recent policies of both federal state governments to encourage local investors, we make bold to say here that this determination has motivated us in a very great measure.

In a remark, President, Nigeria Automotive Technicians Association (NATA), Michael Omonayin hailed the coming on board of the company.

He added that based on the of the company's products, the association had since 2009 signed a memorandum of association with Forgo Battery Nigeria Limited. "While we have remained resilient all these years due to unavailability of the customized brand, today's ceremony to us is a dream come through," Mr. Omonayin added.

Commissioning the facility, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed promised to create conducive environment for investments to thrive in the state. Said he: "It is my pleasure therefore, to be in your midst today for the commissioning of Forgo Battery Assembly Facility in Ilorin. The product of this company is indeed important.

"Aside from aiding the access of our people to quality supply of battery, thus promoting private transport businesses, it will also boost the effort of the government in the creation of jobs and engaging more people of our State directly or indirectly.

"I appreciate your thoughtfulness in establishing this company in Ilorin, Kwara state and assure you that you will harvest good returns on your investment in our state.

"It is evident that by the establishment of this company here, the management is contributing to our prosperity. I, therefore urge the people of the state to reciprocate through due patronage of the product.

"In the past, Kwara State was known to be a civil service state. This tag was hinged on the fact that the bulk of the workforce is engaged in the Civil Service. But I am glad to acknowledge that recently the story is changing for the better.

"It would be recalled that my predecessor commenced the process of weaning the State from this perception. In recent times, a number of companies have been attracted to the state, complementing the efforts of the Kwara state government in providing employment to the people.

"Prominent among such companies are the Dangote Flour Mills, Tuyil Pharmaceutical Company, Kam Wire Steel Industry, and Cashew Nut Processing Industry, among a host of others.

"These companies have in their employment, thousands of Kwarans who are making a living through them.

"I am aware that the product has already made a name and carved a niche for itself for quality and durability. I implore you therefore to make the best use of this opportunity.

"I cannot but mention the phenomenal efforts of the state government in attracting investors to the state. Following a lull in projects, I assure you that the State government will resume infrastructural development programmes at the end of this month. Key among these projects will include road, power, water and education.

I, therefore, invite investors to take advantage of these developments and exploit the numerous opportunities that abound in our state.

Consequently, we have relaxed measures for acquiring land and Certificate of Occupancy and made available other benefits that will encourage investment.

Furthermore, all machinery will be in motion to sustain the atmosphere of peace that is a necessary pre-requisite for the upsurge of industries and commercial ventures. I, therefore, urge our industrialists to come over to Kwara state to enjoy the immense benefits available."