AB InBev

AB InBev restates commitment to Nigeria’s economic development

The world’s largest brewer, Anheuser-Busch InBev, (AB InBev) has reiterated its commitment to the Nigeria project and pledged to actively support the attainment of the country’s developmental aspirations.

The company said after taking into account the country’s huge market, a young population, the resilience and entrepreneurial drive of the people as well as the abundant human and natural resources, it has no doubt about the country’s huge economic potential.

“Nigeria’s potential for growth and development is enormous,” said Marketing Director, AB InBev Nigeria, Arne Rust, speaking in Onitsha, Anambra State, at the unveiling of a red crown cork of Hero lager beer.

The Obi of Onitsha, His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, represented by Engineer Okey Ononye, Onowu Iyase of Onitsha, performed the official unveiling of the cork during which Hero, a favourite lager of South Easterners, was ceremonially knighted and awarded the title of “Dike Mba Nile.”

In his remarks, Igwe Achebe commended AB InBev for its investments in Nigeria, especially the introduction of Hero lager, which drew its philosophy from the enterprising spirit of the Ibos who are the dominant ethnic group in the South East. The adoption of a red crown for Hero, he added, demonstrates respect for the cultural heritage of the ethnic group.

Rust said AB InBev would continue to grow its investment in Nigeria, enabling the country to capitalize on the enormous opportunities for economic transformation. A demonstration of the company’s investment drive could be seen in the $250 million brewery in Sagamu, Ogun State, its largest brewery in Africa, outside of South Africa, that comes on stream later this year. Via the new plant, more products would be introduced in the country, providing Nigerians with more options to choose from while creating employment and livelihood for many and revenue for the government.

He said as Nigeria continues to address such challenges as power supply, infrastructure deficit, insecurity and policy reforms and continuity, among others, the ease of doing business will record incremental improvements, which would drive investor confidence and attract capital inflow into the country.

Hero lager was introduced as a rallying point for people to recognize and surmount whatever challenges they face to realize their potential and become heroes and models of achievements. The red capping of Hero will run as an integrated marketing campaign during which people, and Nigerian men in particular, would be rewarded in recognition of their efforts and mission to “Go! Be the Hero.”

In attendance at the event were businessmen, government officials, community leaders, traders and artisans. The guests were entertained by performances from cultural groups and bands from around the South East.