Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has strongly defended the controversial investment made by his administration in a brewery during his tenure. Speaking during an interview on Arise News with journalist Rufai Oseni, Obi described the brewery investment as a visionary and strategic move that has become one of Anambra State’s most valuable economic assets. According to him, not only has the investment proved profitable, but it also stands as the largest generator of internally generated revenue (IGR) for the state and a major contributor to job creation.
Obi, who governed Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, is known for his emphasis on fiscal discipline and development-focused governance. Despite this reputation, he continues to face criticism from various quarters, especially members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who argue that he left the state without any significant achievements. One recurring point of contention is the brewery investment. However, Obi insists the criticism is unfounded and misinformed.
Recounting the challenges he faced in bringing the brewery project to life, Obi explained that it required considerable effort to attract such a major business venture to Anambra. “If I ever tell you what I went through to get that brewery established, you won’t believe it,” he said, noting that today, the brewery remains one of the state’s most visible economic contributors.
He dismissed claims that the state’s equity in the brewery has depreciated, arguing that critics lack the understanding of the long-term economic benefits. Using sarcasm, he said, “I wish other people in Nigeria invested in something that went down like that.” Obi emphasized that the brewery directly employs over 500 individuals and supports over 5,000 others indirectly through its extensive value chain—including distribution and logistics services.
He also pointed out the irony in the way similar breweries in other states, like Ogun, receive little to no scrutiny. “They have the biggest brewery in Ogun State. Has anyone ever questioned that?” he asked.
Responding to broader accusations that his policies exacerbated poverty in Anambra, Obi rejected the claims and pointed to objective assessments such as the Nigerian Competitive Index and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) rankings. “By 2014, Anambra was ranked number one by the UNDP. That wasn’t me giving myself marks,” he said, adding that he had even been invited to the United Nations to speak about his developmental successes.
Highlighting gains made in education and healthcare during his administration, Obi encouraged Nigerians to seek out donor agencies and international development partners who worked with the state during his tenure for verification. “The only thing I didn’t do well was public relations. I didn’t spend money advertising myself in the media,” he noted.
He concluded by reaffirming his connection to Anambra, stating that he still lives there and owns no property elsewhere. “Let’s walk the streets of Anambra. The people will tell you who I am,” he said, inviting scrutiny from the public rather than relying on political narratives.