Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended his administration’s investment in a state-owned brewery, describing it as one of Anambra’s most significant economic assets.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News with anchor Rufai Oseni on Monday, Obi responded to ongoing criticism of the government’s equity stake in the brewery. He emphasized that the project, despite challenges, has become a major revenue source for the state.
“If you knew what I went through to get that brewery established in Anambra, you wouldn’t believe it,” Obi said. “Today, it is the biggest source of revenue for the state.”
When questioned about the alleged depreciation of the state’s shares in the brewery, Obi dismissed the criticism with sarcasm. “I wish more people in Nigeria had invested in something that supposedly ‘went down’ like this. That’s not a bad investment,” he said.
According to Obi, the brewery directly employs over 500 Anambra residents and indirectly supports more than 5,000 others through distribution and logistics chains. He also criticized what he sees as selective outrage, pointing to similar brewery investments in other states that do not face public scrutiny.
“They have the biggest brewery in Ogun State. Have you ever heard anyone complain about it like this?” he asked.
Responds to Poverty Allegations
Obi also addressed allegations that his administration contributed to increasing poverty in Anambra, countering with data from global development institutions.
“That’s a narrow view,” he said. “Go and look at the Nigerian Competitiveness Index. Nigeria is a signatory to the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals, and there are international benchmarks for measuring development.”
He noted that from 2006 to 2014 — the duration of his effective governance following his reinstatement after impeachment — Anambra saw measurable progress in education, healthcare, and poverty reduction. “By the time I left in 2014, Anambra was ranked number one by the UNDP. It wasn’t me saying it. I was invited to the United Nations to speak about our progress,” he added.
Simplicity and Connection to the People
Obi concluded by affirming his continued presence and transparency in Anambra. “I still live in Anambra. The only house I own is in my name in the state. If you’re ever in Anambra, I invite you to walk the streets with me. The people will tell you who I am,” he said.
He also acknowledged his low media profile during his time in office. “The only thing I didn’t do well, Rufai, was media. I didn’t spend time or money promoting myself in the media,” Obi said.
Despite ongoing criticism, Obi maintains that his administration’s legacy in Anambra—particularly the brewery investment—continues to yield economic and social benefits.
