Ultimum Plant Director Hails Otti’s Investor-friendly Policies During ASLA Study Tour

_“Enabling environment in Abia is driving real investments,” says Ameke_

ABA, Abia State – The Plant Director of Ultimum Limited, Sylvester Ameke, has commended Governor Alex Otti* for creating an enabling environment that is attracting investment and supporting business growth in Abia State.

Ameke made the commendation on Wednesday while welcoming participants of the Abia State Leadership Academy, ASLA, who were on a study tour to the company’s beverage manufacturing plant in Aba.

  Ameke described the state government’s support for investors as exceptional, citing the construction of the access road and installation of streetlights leading to the company’s facility.

“Our Managing Director, Austin Ufomba, met the governor and immediately he gave the order for the construction of the road leading to the plant and the installation of streetlights,” he said.

“The governor has been phenomenal. Beyond that, the enabling environment to establish this business in Abia State is itself an offshoot of the government’s massive support. We have also enjoyed security and other support from the governor.”

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Giving an insight into the company, Ameke said Ultimum Limited is a subsidiary of the Kadji Group, a Cameroon-based conglomerate founded by Kadji Defosso over 50 years ago and currently chaired by Nicole Kadji. The group has operations and expansion interests across Africa.

He noted that Ultimum was incorporated in Nigeria in 2023, initially commencing operations in Lagos through a co-packing arrangement before establishing its manufacturing plant in Aba, which was officially opened on July 9, 2025.

“The business was established to build a strong Pan-African beverage operation, while creating a platform where innovation and talent could thrive,” he said.

“Our vision extends beyond selling beverages. We seek to become part of the communities where we operate.”

Ameke said the company’s presence in Abia has generated employment for residents, including people from host communities, across manufacturing, management, engineering, security, logistics, cleaning and other areas.

“We have employed a lot of indigenous people and members of the host community in our operations. Our team coming to Abia has really impacted positively on the economy of the state,” he said.

He added that the company also contributes to state revenue through taxes and other statutory payments.

Addressing the ASLA participants, Ameke urged them to remain passionate and persistent in pursuing their vision.

“Vision does not ignite growth; passion does. Whatever vision that you choose to undertake, you should remain passionate,” he said.

“Sometimes, when you have a vision, it is not very clear how you want to get there. You must remain resolute and persistent amidst every challenge until you see that vision become a reality. Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.”

Before the factory tour, the participants received a safety briefing from the company’s Health and Safety Manager, Love Nwankwo.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Jahbuikem Ukoha thanked Ultimum management for the opportunity, describing the tour as enlightening and a practical demonstration of leadership and entrepreneurship lessons.

Also speaking, Mr. Dodoh Okafor, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor, who represented ASLA President, Prof. Kenneth Kalu, said the visit was designed to show participants that ideas backed by commitment and innovation can become successful enterprises.

He urged them not to see the tour as an excursion, but as a reminder that they too can build businesses that create jobs and grow Abia’s economy.

The participants were taken through key sections of the plant, including beverage production, engineering, quality control, automation, safety, marketing and business development, and engaged the company’s team on challenges, expansion plans and contributions to the Abia economy.