NJOKU MACDONALD OBINNA
It was a remarkable day in the Amangwu community of Nkwerre LGA, Imo State, as IBILIZ Water, a subsidiary of IBIS Food and Farm, officially unveiled its ultramodern water production facility on Saturday, May 17, 2025.
The event drew dignitaries from the entertainment industry, traditional institutions, and key government agencies, all gathered to witness a significant milestone in indigenous enterprise and community development.
The visionary behind the project, Dr. Chinwe Akano-Onyejiaka, who hails from Nkwerre, expressed deep joy at the fulfilment of a long-held dream. Though married outside the community, she, alongside her supportive husband, chose to site the multi-service water facility in her hometown as a deliberate gesture to give back to her people, create job opportunities and help to uplift local infrastructure.
Veteran Nollywood actor and former President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Chief Ejike Asiegbu, set the tone with a powerful opening address. He praised the project as a clear demonstration of commitment to national growth through grassroots transformation. He described the initiative as a bold step that reflects courage and foresight in a business climate that has become increasingly demanding for indigenous brands.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by His Royal Highness, Eze Barr. C.J. Okwara IV, the Eshi of Nkwerre. He was accompanied by Chief Bernard Nwosu, the Palace Secretary of Amaigbo, and Mrs. Mercy Ndukwe, the Imo State Coordinator of NAFDAC. Their presence underscored the cultural, regulatory, and developmental importance of the project. Eze Okwara IV praised Dr. Akano-Onyejiaka for her resilience and for not allowing marital boundaries to affect her loyalty to her native land. His traditional blessing over the facility was a heartfelt endorsement of her efforts.
The facility itself is designed to serve a wide range of needs. It comprises bottled and sachet water production lines, ice block manufacturing units, and fully functional cold room services. These facilities are expected to meet growing demand for hygienic water products and preservation services within the region, while also aligning with regulatory expectations for safety and environmental hygiene.
One of the most emotional highlights of the event was the goodwill toast delivered by Hon. Justice Ojiugo Chukwumaeze, Ph.D., a long-time associate of Dr. Akano-Onyejiaka. She spoke of the consistency and integrity that have marked the entrepreneur’s journey — a journey rooted in impact, people, and purpose.
During the red carpet interviews, your sincerely, a media personality and Publisher of 4th Estate Reporters, spoke with several key guests including HRM Eze Okwara IV, Chief Bernard Nwosu, and Mrs. Ndukwe. They all commended the facility as a timely intervention and a potential source of economic stimulation in the area.
In her remarks, Dr. Akano-Onyejiaka reiterated her unwavering belief in indigenous excellence and sustainable community development. Her husband also shared brief but heartfelt words of support, making it clear that this journey is one they walk together.
The company also revealed its branch locations across Nigeria. These include N0. 7 Deeper Life Street, off Ada-George Flyover, Port Harcourt, Rivers State; 40 Awolowo Street, Umuahia, Abia State; and Shop N0. 3, Willy Amadi Street, by Fire Service Police Station, Owerri, Imo State — beside Jofen Veterinary.
The launch of IBILIZ Water is more than a business milestone; it is a legacy project — one that will serve not just Nkwerre but Imo State and beyond. It is a bold reminder that even in uncertain economic times, vision and courage can still lead the way.
Njoku Macdonald Obinna
Media Consultant|Newspaper
Columnist|Public Analyst|PR- Expert,
Publisher, 4th Estate Reporters