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Popular industrialist and manufacturer, Engr. John Ezeobi, was recognised and honoured as Industrialist of the Year by The Sun Publishing Limited in recognition of his growing influence in Nigeria’s manufacturing and industrial landscape.
The award, presented at an evening of glamour and celebration on January 31, 2026, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos, spotlights a young Igbo industrialist whose steady expansion, commitment to local manufacturing, and diversified investments have earned him national attention.
Ezeobi, the Chairman of Zobis Group, represents a new generation of Igbo industrialists who are quietly redefining Nigeria’s manufacturing and infrastructure space. Still in his early 40s, he has already transitioned from a modest entrepreneur into a full-fledged industrial player with tangible assets, factories, and supply chains that cut across key economic corridors of the country.
Central to this recognition is Zobis Electrical Wires and Cable Ltd, the flagship manufacturing arm of the group, whose cable production facility in Odekpe, Anambra State, has grown into one of the notable indigenous manufacturing outfits in the sector. From serving regional markets in the Southeast, Zobis products have expanded their reach to Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja, and other major commercial centres.
From all indications, Ezeobi’s strength lies not just in expansion, but in manufacturing depth. At a time when many businesses focus on importation and distribution, Zobis has invested heavily in local production, machinery, and skilled manpower, contributing to job creation and reducing dependence on foreign-made electrical components.
The Sun Newspaper award also reflects the broader footprint of Zobis Group, which has diversified into oil and gas services, construction, real estate, and renewable energy. This deliberate diversification, it was gathered, positions the Group to withstand sectoral shocks while also contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s industrial ecosystem.
Beyond the Southeast, Ezeobi’s decision to establish a strong corporate presence in Abuja is viewed as strategic. With the nation’s capital serving as a hub for large-scale construction and infrastructure projects, Zobis’ Abuja operations provide proximity to major decision-makers, contractors, and continental opportunities, reinforcing the group’s long-term growth ambitions.
Despite this national outlook, Ezeobi has maintained strong industrial roots in Anambra State. His Odekpe factory remains operational and expanding, emphasizing a philosophy that growth outside Igboland does not require abandoning it. Rather, his trajectory reflects a true Igbo spirit of hustling and Igbo entrepreneurial tradition of building locally while competing nationally and globally.
Another factor believed to have influenced the Sun Newspaper recognition is Ezeobi’s growing interest in renewable and sustainable energy solutions. As Nigeria grapples with power shortages and energy transition challenges, his investments signal a forward-looking approach aligned with future industrial demands.
The Industrialist of the Year Award ceremony is expected to attract top government officials, captains of industry, policymakers, among other top stakeholders in different sectors of the country and beyond.
For Ezeobi, this honour is regarded not as a destination, but as another interesting milestone in an ongoing industrial journey.
