The siting of Nigeria's major paper and pulp industrial complex at Jebba in Kwara State along the River Niger was primarily determined by which geographical factor?
- Availability of abundant fresh water needed for pulping processes alongside local timber supplyAnswer
- BDirect orientation toward major coastal market centers to minimize transport costs of finished paper products
- CImmediate proximity to rich coal deposits required as the primary chemical bleaching input
- DReliance on dense tropical hardwood forests harvested directly from the surrounding northern Sahel zone
Answer
The siting of the Jebba paper mill was primarily determined by the availability of abundant fresh water from the River Niger alongside local timber and pulpwood sources.
Pulp and paper production is a heavy weight-losing manufacturing process that consumes immense volumes of water during fiber digestion and washing. Siting the plant at Jebba guarantees direct access to the continuous fresh water supply of the River Niger and nearby timber fiber supplies, minimizing raw material assembly costs.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Raw material and water resource orientation in Nigerian heavy manufacturing
Estimated Time:1m 15s