Enugu lawmakers push for revitalization of Ohebe Dim aluminium industry

DDM News

The Enugu State House of Assembly has received a motion urging the revitalization and rehabilitation of the abandoned aluminium industry in Ohebe Dim.

Hon. (Engr.) Williams Tochi Amuka, representing Igbo-Etiti West Constituency, sponsored the motion during a plenary session on February 18, 2025.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the motion highlights the urgent need for the Enugu State Government to intervene and restore the once-thriving aluminium manufacturing industry.

Revitalization of the industry, if achieved, will significantly boost the economic development of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area and Enugu State.

Hon. Amuka emphasized that the factory, once operational, contributed immensely to employment, industrial growth, and revenue generation in the state.

The aluminium industry, established during Chief Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo’s administration, was a key player in the manufacturing sector.

Over the years, the industry has suffered from neglect, mismanagement, and infrastructural decay, leading to its eventual abandonment.

The revitalization of the factory aligns with Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s commitment to restoring moribund and abandoned government-owned establishments.

According to Hon. Amuka, no nation can thrive without a strong manufacturing base, as emphasized by industry experts.

He noted that the factory, once rehabilitated, would not only create jobs but also attract investment into the local economy.

The motion outlined several economic benefits of revitalizing the aluminium industry in Ohebe Dim, including employment generation and business expansion.

Job creation remains one of the primary advantages of the factory’s revitalization, reducing unemployment rates in the state.

With thousands of direct and indirect jobs, the factory will empower youths, school leavers, and local artisans in the community.

The revitalization will stimulate the local economy by creating a market for raw materials sourced from various states.

Hon. Amuka stressed that increased industrial activity would attract investors and encourage the establishment of complementary businesses.

Enugu State’s gross domestic product (GDP) will witness a boost through the revival of the aluminium manufacturing industry.

The factory, once functional, will not only serve the local market but also contribute to Nigeria’s export earnings.

Aluminium products remain essential in various sectors, including construction, packaging, and transportation industries.

Hon. Amuka cited reports indicating that the global aluminium market was valued at $210 billion in 2021.

Experts project that global aluminium demand will increase by 40% by the year 2030.

This indicates that revitalizing the Ohebe Dim aluminium industry presents a strategic economic opportunity for Enugu State.

Despite the factory’s potential, several challenges must be addressed to facilitate its successful rehabilitation.

Funding remains a major obstacle, as rehabilitation, refurbishment, and operational costs require significant financial investment.

The factory’s infrastructure has deteriorated over time and requires major upgrades to meet modern industrial standards.

Hon. Amuka emphasized the need for a skilled workforce trained in modern aluminium production techniques.

Without adequate training programs, the factory may struggle to compete with established aluminium manufacturers.

Market competition, both locally and internationally, poses another challenge that must be addressed through strategic policies.

The motion recommended several government initiatives to facilitate the revitalization of the aluminium industry.

Public-private partnerships (PPP) should be explored to attract private investors willing to inject capital and expertise into the project.

Formulating policies that support industrial growth will create an enabling environment for manufacturers and potential investors.

Skill development programs must be introduced in collaboration with educational institutions to train workers in aluminium production.

Infrastructure development, including improved road networks and utilities, will enhance the factory’s operational efficiency.

The procurement of raw materials is another critical factor in ensuring the factory’s sustainability post-revitalization.

Historically, the factory sourced bauxite, a key aluminium raw material, from Plateau, Ondo, Ekiti, and Adamawa states.

These states still possess rich deposits of bauxite, although costs may vary compared to the factory’s earlier operational period.

Hon. Amuka stressed that government intervention is necessary to secure raw material supply and control production costs.

The motion further emphasized that the factory’s revitalization aligns with Enugu State’s urbanization plans.

Ogbede, the area where the factory is located, has been undergoing rapid urbanization by the state government.

The executive chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government is also working towards establishing a new building materials market.

If revitalized, the aluminium factory will serve as the major supplier of finished products to the new market.

The entire local government and surrounding areas will benefit from the steady supply of aluminium products.

The motion included specific prayers requesting government action to facilitate the factory’s revitalization and rehabilitation.

The House was urged to direct the State Ministry of Commerce and Industry to take necessary steps for the project.

Relevant ministries, including economic planning, human capital development, and poverty reduction, should collaborate on the revitalization effort.

The motion also called for synergy between state parastatals and agencies to expedite the rehabilitation process.

Hon. Amuka expressed confidence that with the necessary support, the aluminium factory would return to full operational capacity.

The motion was co-sponsored by prominent lawmakers, including Rt. Hon. Ezenta Ezeani and Rt. Hon. Barr. Chima Obieze.

Others who endorsed the motion include Rt. Hon. Iloabuchi Aniagu, Hon. Ejike Eze, and Hon. Pious Ezugwu.

Additional supporters included Hon. Harrison Ogara, Hon. Engr. Magnus Edeh, and Hon. Okey Mba.

Hon. Osita Eze, Hon. Clifford Obe, and Hon. Okey Aneke also co-sponsored the motion.

Hon. Princess Obiajulu Ugwu and Hon. Okey Onyechi were among the lawmakers advocating for the factory’s revitalization.

The motion has drawn significant attention from stakeholders within and outside Enugu State.

Economic experts have commended the initiative, stating that industrial revival is essential for long-term economic stability.

Community leaders in Igbo-Etiti Local Government have expressed optimism about the factory’s potential impact on the area.

Local artisans and business owners eagerly anticipate new opportunities that will arise from the factory’s rehabilitation.

The revitalization project, if actualized, will position Enugu State as a key player in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s administration is expected to take decisive action in response to the Assembly’s resolution.

Industrialization remains a priority for the current government, making the aluminium factory’s revival a strategic move.

Stakeholders are hopeful that a structured implementation plan will be developed to ensure the factory’s sustainability.

Hon. Amuka reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the motion receives the necessary legislative backing.

He called on relevant authorities to expedite discussions on funding mechanisms for the factory’s revitalization.

With political will and proper planning, the Ohebe Dim aluminium industry will be restored to its former glory.

The call for revitalization remains a crucial step toward economic transformation in Igbo-Etitiand beyond.

As discussions progress, all eyes remain on the government’s next steps regarding the factory’s rehabilitation.

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