Gbenga Ilemobayo
As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, Nigerian Breweries Plc has donated a two-tonne-per-day cassava processing facility to the Awo-Omamma community in Owerri, Imo State.
Delivering his keynote remarks during the inaugurationofthefacility, Thibaut Boidin, Managing Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, described the project as yet another milestone in the company’s journey toward sustainable development and economic empowerment.
Boidin said the cassava processing plant would create multiple direct and indirect employment opportunities for local youths and residents, generate an estimated ₦500m in annual revenue and ultimately position Awo-Omamma as a hub for cassava processing.
He emphasized that the company’s mission extended beyond brewing beverages, but it was equally committed to brewing prosperity, hope, and empowerment for the people and the communities it serves.
He stated, “Over the years, through our various Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, we have consistently made significant and lasting impacts in critical areas such as education, healthcare, access to clean water, security and economic empowerment.
“Today’s event further demonstrates our unwavering dedication to spreading joy and enabling progress in our host communities.”
He explained that the facility was developed following a comprehensive needs assessment conducted by the company in collaboration with community stakeholders.
Boidin added that the cassava processing facility was designed as a sustainable, revenue-generating project aimed at mitigating the socio-economic challenges and preserving livelihoods previously supported by its mothballed Awo-Omamma brewery.
In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Eze Dr Val Awo-Omamma community, Eze Amanfo VI, expressed gratitude to Nigerian Breweries Plc for its thoughtful contribution to the community.
He stated, “This donation will go a long way to supporting food production, thereby providing jobs for our women and youths as well as encouraging local farmers, etc. It will bring hope to many families and strengthen the bond of friendship between our people and your organisation.
“As the traditional ruler of this land, I want to assure you that the people of Awo-Omamma community deeply appreciate this gesture. We recognise your effort, your respect for our community, and your commitment to shared progress. We will continue to support your operations, and together, we shall sustain a peaceful and mutually beneficial relationship.”
The Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Imo State, Chief Rex Anunobi, lauded Nigerian Breweries’ long-standing presence in the state and its positive contributions to economic growth, amidst operational challenges.
Anunobi noted that the establishment of the cassava processing facility reflected the company’s sensitivity to the needs of its host communities and aligns with Imo state government’s economic development agenda.
“The commissioning of this cassava processing plant will undoubtedly uplift economic income and provide employment for the people of Awo-Omamma. The Imo State Government deeply appreciates Nigerian Breweries Plc for this kind gesture, which stands as a shining example for other corporate organisations to emulate. We assure you of our continued partnership and support to ensure this facility operates optimally and contributes meaningfully to the prosperity of our people,” he said.
