We Had Factory Producing Beer In Kano, I Never Witnessed Any Riot In Kano Because Of Beer-Oshiomhole

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has recalled the existence of a beer-producing factory in Kano State that employed nearly 3,000 workers during his time as General Secretary of the National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria.

Oshiomhole shared the account during an interview with SYMFONI TV, where he reflected on employment opportunities in the country in previous decades and discussed the relationship between religious beliefs, alcohol consumption and social coexistence.

According to the former Edo State governor, the factory provided employment for thousands of Nigerians, with its workers organised under the Union of Food and Beverages. He cited the establishment as an example of how industrial activities operated in Kano at the time, despite the religious sensitivities often associated with alcohol consumption in the state.

Oshiomhole explained that people who wished to consume beer were free to do so, adding that he did not recall witnessing any riot in Kano triggered by individuals drinking alcohol during the period he was referring to.

His remarks appeared to challenge the assumption that the presence of alcohol-related businesses would inevitably result in religious or social unrest in a predominantly Muslim state.

While discussing the factory’s operations, the senator emphasised the number of people whose livelihoods depended on the business. He noted that the workers were represented by a trade union, highlighting the role organised labour played in protecting employees and representing their interests.

Speaking during the interview, Oshiomhole said, “We have a factory that was producing beer in Kano. This idea of religion and alcohol and so, if you want to drink beer you drink. I never witnessed any riot in Kano because you were drinking beer. So people were employed there almost 3000 workers, they were organized by Union of Food and Beverages.”

The former labour leader’s recollection also draws attention to the historical contribution of manufacturing businesses to employment in Nigeria. Factories provided jobs for large numbers of workers, while trade unions helped organise employees and represent their concerns in the workplace.

You can watch the video from 34:53 to 35:22

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