Egwuonwu Named Investor of the Year for Rice Contributions

Chief Dr. Akai Egwuonwu, an industrialist from Amichi in Nnewi South Local Government Area, Anambra State, has been recognized as Investor of the Year for his significant contributions to business development and job creation in the Southeast region. Egwuonwu has a prominent business interest in the food and beverage sector, including the establishment of Odich Bread in 1958.

He pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Western International University in London and a Master's degree in Business Management from the University of East London. He has heavily invested in agriculture, particularly rice production, and is associated with major brands like Anambra Rice and Stine Rice.

His investments have encouraged greater private sector participation in rice farming and have created employment for approximately 2,000 people nationwide. Egwuonwu will receive the Investor of the Year award at the upcoming AMTI awards scheduled for July 18, 2026, in Awka, Anambra State.