Maroc - NOTCHNEWSONLINE.COM.NG - A La Une - 21/Feb 06:36

Enugu Lawmaker Moves to Revitalize Abandoned Aluminium Factory

Enugu State House of Assembly member, Hon. (Engr.) Williams Tochi Amuka, has presented a motion urging the state government to rehabilitate the abandoned Aluminium Factory located at Ohebe Dim, Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area.Amuka, representing Igbo-Etiti West State Constituency, emphasized the economic importance of revitalizing the factory, citing its potential to create thousands of jobs, stimulate local economic development, and attract investments.Established by former Governor Chief Jim Ifeanyichukwu Nwobodo, the Aluminium Factory was a significant industrial site that contributed to local and national economies. However, it has been abandoned for decades due to mismanagement, lack of investment, and infrastructural decay.Economic Benefits of RehabilitationRehabilitating the Aluminium Factory is vital for several reasons:- Job Creation: The factory has the potential to create thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, reducing unemployment rates in the state.- Local Economic Development: A functioning factory can stimulate the local economy by increasing demand for raw materials from local suppliers and creating a market for finished products.- Attracting Investment: Revitalizing the factory will attract further investments into the Local Government, encouraging the setting up of other micro businesses in the area.- Export Potential: With proper rehabilitation, the factory will resume production at competitive levels, contributing to Nigeria's export earnings.Supporting Other Industries: The Aluminium industry will provide support to many industries, including construction, packaging, and transportation.Challenges and SolutionsDespite its potential benefits, several challenges hinder the rehabilitation process, including funding, infrastructure, skilled workforce, and market competition. To address these challenges, Amuka proposed government initiatives such as public-private partnerships, policy formulation frameworks, skill development programs, and infrastructure development plans.The rehabilitation of the Aluminium Factory is not just an economic necessity but also a strategic move towards sustainable development in Enugu State. By addressing historical challenges and fostering collaboration with private sectors, there is significant potential for the revitalization and rehabilitation of this key industrial asset.The bill was Co-Sponsored by Rt. Hon. Ezenta Ezeani, Rt. Hon. Barr. Chima Obieze, Rt. Hon.  Iloabuchi Aniagu,Hon. Ejike EzeHon. Pious Ezugwu ,Hon. Harrison Ogara,Hon. Engr. Magnus Edeh, Hon. Okey Mba, Hon. Osita Eze, Hon. Clifford Obe, Hon. Okey Aneke, Hon. Princess Obiajulu Ugwu,Hon. Okey Onyechi