Could you please share the journey of Zeberced Group in Nigeria up to this point?
Certainly. As Turkish citizens, we faced a global economic crisis in 2006 and 2007. To secure our businesses, we decided to explore alternative locations beyond Turkey. Initially, we looked at Central Asian countries like Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, but we found these areas were already saturated with business activities. We then considered Eastern Europe and North Africa, but they were too close to well-developed Western countries.
Ultimately, we turned our attention to sub-Saharan Africa. To make an informed decision, I personally visited several African countries, including South Africa, Gabon, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana, before arriving in Nigeria. Initially, I found Lagos to be challenging, but when I reached Abuja, I saw it as a well-organized and developing city, making it an ideal place for our business endeavors.
ALSO READ:Oil Production Surges To 1.6mbpd, Petrol Consumption Slows 30% – NNPCL
We started with a small quarry business, initially facing obstacles in acquiring the necessary land and licenses. However, with the support of the government, we eventually established our operations. Over time, we have grown to become the largest quarry and asphalt operators in Africa.
Recognizing the immense potential of Nigeria, we decided to focus on industrialization in 2010. This vision led to the establishment of an industrial park in Abuja, covering 250 hectares of land. When completed, this project will provide employment opportunities for 40,000 people, with 200 factories, railways, power plants, logistic warehouses, and support services to complement the industries. We believe this project will not only boost local employment but also attract foreign investment due to Nigeria’s abundant resources and market demand.
It’s important to note that we have never received government projects or funding. Instead, we reinvest our earnings in the country. Our commitment extends to various sectors, including estate development, waste treatment, solid waste management, and addressing power issues. We aim to contribute to the economic growth and development of Nigeria and collaborate with both the private sector and the government to achieve this goal.
In summary, Zeberced Group’s journey in Nigeria has evolved from a small quarry business to becoming a significant player in industrialization, infrastructure development, and employment generation, all while reinvesting in the country’s growth and development.
