Imo Government restores the historic aluminium plant after years of abandonment

The Imo State Government has officially recommissioned the Imo Aluminium Extrusion Industries Limited (ALEX) in Inyishi, Ikeduru Local Government Area, marking the full revival of one of the state’s oldest and most strategic industrial assets. 

At the official flag-off ceremony on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Chief Barrister Rex C. Anunobi, described the development as a major milestone in Imo State’s drive towards industrial renewal.

He traced the factory’s origins to 1983, when it was established under the administration of the late Chief Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe and rapidly became a leading producer of aluminium long span roofing sheets, profiles and accessories, supplying markets nationwide.

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From decline to decisive intervention

Despite its early success, ALEX later fell into disrepair. According to Anunobi, the downturn was driven by mismanagement and fraudulent practices by former technical partners, Tower Aluminium Plc and their foreign associates, who eventually abandoned the plant. The shutdown threatened the livelihoods of over 200 workers, most of them Imo indigenes and left a strategic asset idle.

The commissioner explained that Governor Hope Uzodimma stepped in after receiving a detailed briefing on the company’s deteriorating condition. The state government subsequently took over the facility and initiated the process that led to its restoration, with Anunobi commending the governor for acting decisively where earlier administrations had failed.

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Anunobi also acknowledged the role of the indigenous management team, employees and the host Inyishi community, praising them for safeguarding the plant and its equipment during the long period of inactivity. He urged workers to fully support the new management, assuring them of sustained government backing and improved staff welfare.

To ensure long-term viability, the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Investment is coordinating with other ministries and agencies to prioritise ALEX products for public construction projects, thereby anchoring sustained demand.

In his remarks, Acting Managing Director Sir Amaihe Levi confirmed that the company would commence full commercial operations immediately, expressing confidence that the revived plant would supply quality aluminium products, create jobs and significantly boost industrial development within Imo State.

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