In what appears to be a renewed sign of confidence in Imo State’s business climate, Nigerian Breweries Plc has revealed plans to revive its Awo-Omamma Brewery, which has remained dormant for months following insecurity in the area.
The indication came during the official commissioning and handover of a 2-ton-per-day cassava processing plant constructed and donated by Nigerian Breweries to the Awo-Omamma community as part of its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) drive.
The newly commissioned facility is designed to empower the local economy by converting cassava, a key regional crop, into a driver of growth and opportunity.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director and CEO of Nigerian Breweries, Mr. Thibaut Boidin, explained that the initiative reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s developmental aspirations through youth empowerment and economic diversification.
“Beyond the infrastructure, the true impact lies in the opportunities this facility creates,” Boidin noted.
“We are creating new livelihoods for residents and positioning Awo-Omamma as a major hub for cassava processing in the Southeast.”
According to the company, the cassava plant is projected to inject over ₦500 million annually into the local economy through employment, supply chain engagement, and raw material processing.
Boidin further hinted at the company’s ongoing discussions to reopen the Awo-Omamma Brewery, citing the improved security situation and the state government’s commitment to fostering an enabling business environment.
“We are closely monitoring the progress in Imo State,” he said. “With these positive developments, we are optimistic about the possibility of reviving operations soon.”
The revival of Nigerian Breweries’ operations and the introduction of a cassava processing facility mark a significant step toward Imo’s economic recovery.
For the people of Awo-Omamma and surrounding communities, the twin developments promise job creation, youth engagement, and increased local production, which could inspire similar industrial investments across the state.
As the cassava processing facility begins operations, residents anticipate a ripple effect on local agriculture, trade, and income generation, reinforcing Nigerian Breweries’ philosophy of “Winning with Nigeria.”
Some of the community leaders and members present during the opening believe that this initiative not only represents corporate responsibility but also a symbol of hope for a state striving to regain its economic vibrancy. With continued collaboration between the private sector and local communities, Imo’s journey toward sustainable development appears to be back on track.
“May God help our dear state, Imo,” a community leader remarked during the event, echoing the collective optimism of a people ready to rebuild and prosper.