Ighodalo resigns as Nigerian Breweries’ board chairman to pursue politics

Asue Ighodalo

Chairman of the board of directors of Nigerian Breweries Plc Asue Ighodalo has resigned to pursue his governorship ambition in Edo State.

The announcement, made during the company’s board meeting on December 7, 2023, was shared via a notification to the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX).

The notification also added that Ndidi Nwuneli, an independent non-executive director, would be leaving her role having completed her nine-year tenure.

In his statement, Ighodalo expressed mixed emotions about his decision, acknowledging it as a painful sacrifice but one necessary for his full devotion to a new cause. He will step down as chairman and from the board effective December 31, 2023.

“It is with heartfelt regret that I announce my resignation as Chairman of the Board of Nigerian Breweries Plc, effective December 31, 2023.

“After extensive deliberations, I have decided to offer myself for public service to our dear country. The decision comes with the mixed emotions of a painful sacrifice made to enable my full devotion to the new cause.

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“It is my pride to have been part of such a formidable organisation well-positioned to meet the opportunities and challenges in Nigeria’s ever-changing business environment,” he said.

Following Ighodalo resignation, the Nigerian Breweries announced the appointment of Sijbe Hiemstra as chairman of the company in an interim capacity, effective January 1, 2024.

The company said Hiemstra, the longest-serving director, will lead the board and oversee the process of appointing a new chairman.

“The Board is grateful to Asue for his exceptional leadership during his tenure as Chairman. He has guided Nigerian Breweries through challenging times and has left a lasting legacy. We are also thankful to Ndidi for her valuable contributions to the Board,” secretary to the board Uaboi Agbebaku said in the NGX notification.

Ighodalo recently confirmed his intention to seek the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2024 governorship election in Edo State when he addressed his kinsmen in front of his family home in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area of the state.

Speaking through an interpreter, Ighodalo dismissed critics who described him as a ‘Lagos boy’, insisting that he is a true Esan man and has been involved in efforts to develop Edo State since 2008.