The Adamawa Government in Nigeria has signed an agreement with Dangote Group and three foreign firms to establish cement factories in the state.

Shanti Sashi, the state Commissioner for Mineral Resources, said the state government is on the verge of getting all necessary approvals at the federal level for the investor to assemble the factory. She said that the company decided to establish its factory in the state due to the abundant limestone, clay and gypsum deposits in the region.

"We have signed agreements with Dangote Group of Companies and other three foreign companies and we are now looking for Federal Government’s licence. The state government has approved and we are waiting for federal certificate to hand over to the investors."

Ms Sashi listed Dangote Group of Companies; Smart Group, a US-based firm; BTP Swiss International; and a Chinese firm as the companies that had expressed interest in the cement deal.

The commissioner, who is also the Mining Governance for Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committees (MIREMCO) chairperson, said: "We are making efforts to get all necessary approvals for the cement factory to commence operations soon, while the other company has commenced exploration of gold and other minerals."