Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has made a strong appeal to Nigerian Breweries PLC to resume operations at its '33' Brewery located in Awa-Omamma, Oru West Local Government Area. The facility has been non-operational for more than two years.
Government's Pledge of Support
The governor's message was delivered by the State Commissioner for Trade, Commerce and Investment, Rex Anunobi, during an official event held on Wednesday, November 14, 2025. Anunobi conveyed the state government's readiness to partner with the brewing giant to tackle any issues that caused the shutdown.
"Our stay today is a celebration with mixed feelings," Anunobi stated. "Imo is a hub of economic activities. Whatever led to the shutting down of the Brewery here, those concerns and challenges should be addressed to enable this plant to come on stream; this giant establishment to come back to life. Whatever challenges and concerns, Imo State government will help you. We will partner and help you."
Commissioning of a Transformative Cassava Plant
The governor's appeal coincided with the inauguration of a new cassava processing facility in the Awa-Omamma community. This plant, built and operated by Nigerian Breweries as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program, has a capacity of two tons per day.
Managing Director and CEO of NBL, Thibaut Boidin, described the project as a "transformative initiative" focused on economic empowerment. He announced that the facility is projected to generate an impressive N500 million in annual revenue for the host community.
"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." He added that the company remains committed to supporting education, healthcare, and security in the area.
Community Reception and Broader Implications
The traditional ruler of Awa-Omamma, Eze Val Amanfo, received the keys to the new plant and thanked Nigerian Breweries for the project. He pledged that the community would ensure the protection and optimal use of the facility.
The event was also attended by other government officials, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu.
Governor Uzodimma's push to revive the '33' Brewery underscores a larger objective to rejuvenate industrial activity in Imo State and foster stronger collaboration between the government, private investors, and host communities for shared economic prosperity.
