The Imo State Government has formally launched the return to operations of the Imo Aluminum Extrusion Industries Limited, ALEX, in Inyishi, Ikeduru Local Government Area, signalling the complete restoration of one of the state’s oldest industrial facilities.
Addressing stakeholders at the flag-off ceremony on Tuesday, the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Chief Barrister Rex C. Anunobi, described the reopening as a major milestone in Imo State’s drive toward industrial renewal.
He recalled that ALEX was founded in 1983 during the administration of the late Chief Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe and grew into a prominent manufacturer of aluminum long span roofing sheets, profiles and accessories, operating at full capacity and supplying markets across the country for several years.
According to Anunobi, the company later deteriorated due to what he described as mismanagement and fraudulent practices by its former technical partners, Tower Aluminium Plc and their foreign associates, who eventually abandoned the facility and left it in a state of neglect. He noted that the collapse placed more than 200 workers, most of them Imo indigenes, at risk of losing their livelihoods.
He explained that Governor Hope Uzodimma intervened after receiving a comprehensive briefing on the company’s dire condition, prompting swift action to prevent its complete shutdown. The commissioner said the state government took over the facility and initiated steps that ultimately led to its revival, commending the governor for acting decisively where earlier administrations had failed.
Anunobi also praised the commitment of the company’s indigenous management team, employees and the host Inyishi community for safeguarding the plant and its equipment throughout the years of inactivity, describing their loyalty as a critical factor in the successful resuscitation of the industry.
He encouraged workers to give full support to the new management, assuring them of the government’s continued commitment to staff welfare.
Anunobi further disclosed that the Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Investment is engaging other ministries, departments and agencies of government to patronize ALEX for building and construction projects, in a bid to ensure sustained demand and continuous production.
In his remarks, the Acting Managing Director of ALEX, Sir Amaihe Levi, announced that the company would begin full commercial operations from tomorrow, following the official reopening by the state government.
He expressed optimism that the revived factory would consistently supply quality aluminum products, create jobs and play a significant role in boosting industrial development within Imo State.
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