By Abraham Ovuoba
Ebonyi State has recorded another milestone in its industrialisation drive with the commissioning of a 120-tonnes-per-hour asphalt production plant by Ayigold Investment Limited at Idembia, Ishieke, in Ebonyi Local Government Area.
The facility, which has commenced commercial operations, is expected to supply asphalt for road construction projects within and outside Ebonyi State, create jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.
Commissioning the plant, renowned industrialist, Arc. Sir Edward Nkwegu, described the investment as a major contribution to industrial growth, noting that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) remain the backbone of economic development. He commended Ayigold Investment Limited for locating the project in Ebonyi, saying the factory would deepen industrial activities, stimulate the local economy and support infrastructure development.
He urged government agencies, contractors and private developers to patronise the company, while calling on the host community to protect the facility as a valuable asset for economic transformation.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ayigold Investment Limited, Mr. Godwin Ayibam Ese, said the plant has the capacity to produce 120 tonnes of asphalt per hour to meet the increasing demand for quality road construction materials. According to him, the company was established to complement ongoing infrastructure development and provide reliable products for government, contractors and private developers.
Also speaking, Director of the company, Mr. Igwe Eze Chikaodiri, disclosed that the project took about two years to complete after identifying a gap in the state’s industrial sector. He attributed the investment to Ebonyi’s favourable business environment, revealing that the company has already created over 22 direct jobs, with more employment opportunities expected.
The producer of the asphalt plant, Mr. Vijay Prakash, said the equipment was manufactured in Enugu State, stressing that local production of industrial machinery would reduce import costs and make equipment more affordable for Nigerian companies.
Offering prayers during the ceremony, Pastor Taye Johnson described the project as a divine initiative that would accelerate infrastructure development and improve livelihoods.
In her remarks, Mrs. Joy Ayibam Ese, wife of the Managing Director, said the investment was inspired by gratitude to Ebonyi State, where the business had flourished. She expressed optimism that the project would inspire more young people to embrace entrepreneurship.
The event attracted industrialists, contractors, traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders and members of the host community, who described the asphalt plant as a strategic investment capable of boosting industrialisation, creating employment and supporting sustainable economic growth in Ebonyi State.
