The Executive Chairman of Ado Local Government Area, Hon. Engr. Sunny Uday Oche, has expressed optimism that the long-abandoned Igumale Cement Plant will soon resume operations, saying improved security in the area has encouraged Chinese investors to return after nearly three decades.
Oche disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Idoma TV, monitored by Idoma Voice, where he highlighted the achievements of his administration and the efforts to restore investor confidence in the border council. According to him, insecurity was the major reason the investors abandoned the project years ago, but the situation has changed following the establishment of a robust security architecture in Ado.
“As I speak, the moribund Igumale Cement Industry is about to resume operations. His Excellency has shown great interest in the project, and the Chinese investors are returning,” he said. “One of the reasons they left in the first place was insecurity. Yes, it has been taken care of, and they are now very confident. The good thing is that the company shares the same vicinity with a military base established under Operation Whirl Stroke. So, we now have multiple layers of fully functional security.”
The council chairman said Chinese investors had already visited Ado to prospect for mineral resources, particularly gemstones, and were impressed by the security situation and investment opportunities available. “Last year, a group of Chinese investors visited to prospect for mineral resources, particularly gemstones. They were well accommodated and were very pleased with what they saw. They took some samples with them, and we are expecting them back very soon,” he added.
Oche said restoring security was the first priority of his administration after assuming office in October 2024. With the support of Governor Hyacinth Alia, the local government established and funded a security outfit equipped with vehicles, motorcycles and other operational tools, leading to a significant reduction in criminal activities.
Beyond security, the chairman said his administration had embarked on major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Igumale–Agila Road, installation of solar-powered streetlights across the wards, renovation of the local government secretariat and improvements in primary healthcare facilities. He further claimed that over ₦30 billion had been invested in Ado Local Government since he assumed office, describing the council as one of the biggest beneficiaries of the current Benue State administration.
