Uzodimma Reopens Long-Abandoned Aluminium Industry In Imo

The Imo State Government has flagged off the resumption of production at the Imo Aluminum Extrusion Industries Limited, ALEX, Inyishi, Ikeduru Local Government Area, marking the full revival of one of the state’s most historic industrial assets.

Speaking at the event on Tuesday, the Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Chief Barrister Rex C. Anunobi, described the occasion as a defining moment in the state’s industrial rebirth.

He recalled that ALEX was established in 1983 under the administration of the late Chief Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe and once stood as a leading producer of aluminum long span, profiles, and accessories across Nigeria, operating profitably at full capacity for many years.

Chief Anunobi said the industry later fell into decline due to poor and fraudulent management by its former technical partners, Tower Aluminium Plc and its foreign collaborators, who abandoned the company in a moribund state. The development, he noted, placed over 200 workers, largely Imo indigene, at the risk of job loss and economic hardship.

He stated that the intervention of Governor Hope Uzodimma, followed a detailed briefing on the near collapse of the company. According to him, the Governor moved swiftly to prevent total extinction, leading to the state takeover and eventual resuscitation of the facility. He praised the Governor for succeeding where previous administrations failed to act.

The Commissioner further commended the indigenous management staff, workers, and the host Inyishi community for protecting the company’s equipment during the years of inactivity, noting that their discipline and loyalty played a key role in the successful revival. He urged staff to cooperate fully with the new management, assuring them that the state government would continue to prioritize their welfare.

Chief Anunobi also disclosed that the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Investment has begun engaging other government ministries and agencies to patronize ALEX for their construction needs, as part of efforts to guarantee steady demand and sustained production.

Also speaking, the Acting Managing Director of ALEX, Sir Amaihe Levi, announced that the company will commence full commercial production from tomorrow, following today’s official flag-off by the Imo State Government.

He expressed confidence that the revived plant would once again deliver high-quality aluminum products to the market and contribute meaningfully to employment and industrial growth in the state.