Uzozie Unveils Sub Saharan Africa’s Premier Furniture Work

…As Sen. Orji Kalu eulogises him

When an Imo-born Abuja based established entrepreneur and business maverick High Chief Ebere Goodwill Uzozie threw open the gates of his expansive furniture manufacturing complex at Idu Industrial Area, on Wednesday, July 23, 2025 what the esteemed visitors witnessed was more than an industrial site it was an enterprise pulsating with creativity, local ingenuity, and boundless potential.

During the official tour of what has become known as the largest and most functional furniture factory in sub‑Saharan Africa, the Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District, and former Abia State governor Senator Orji Uzor Kalu stood visibly impressed. His visit underscored the momentous rise of what many now hail as the “African Julius Berger”, a beacon of Nigerian industrial excellence and economic revolution.

Established formally in 2006 and scaled up significantly by 2013, GU EBECO Industries Limited sits on more than one hectare at Idu, outfitted with state‑of‑the‑art equipment acquired from Europe. Originally a trading firm, it has since transformed into a full-fledged manufacturing hub, employing over 1,700 Nigerians, and 30 white men.

Against the backdrop of precision carpentry and modern factory automation, Uzozie, a humble visionary, shared his journey—not as a boast but as a testament to what indigenous resolve and strategic focus can achieve. He reminded all present that his success is intertwined with the progress of his community, Umuobom, Ideato Local Government Area of Imo, and indeed, the nation.

Speaking with a tone rich in sincerity and heart, Uzozie invited budding entrepreneurs and business associates like: Chairman of Citygate Homes; High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu (Onowu Anara), Chief Nzubechukwu Ozumba (Ifemeremma Na Oba); Chairman , Ozumba Computers, Chief Peter Chukwudi Nwakeze (Uzochukwuwara); Chairman, Grand Pela Group of Companies, Chief Obinna Etele; Cairman, Eteleson Group, to look beyond the moment—they were witnessing the fruit of patient investment, disciplined work ethic, and conscious local value‑creation.

Kalu, upon leaving, eulogized the industry impact of GU Ebeko Group, described Uzozie factory as a “masterclass in enterprise building,” extending praise not just to the man behind it, but to every Igboman and Nigerian resilient enough to dream big in a challenging market.

For Umuobom, the significance runs deeper: Uzozie is more than an industrialist—he is a community pillar and uncommon philanthropist. To his people, EBECO worldwide is synonymous with opportunity. He has sponsored churches and stadium projects alike, paid school fees, awarded scholarships to university students, organized local football tournaments, sponsored traditional festivals, funded road projects, and fostered peace across religious and clan lines. His influence has raised Umuobom from obscurity to prominence, Njoku Macdonald Obinna, Publisher of 4th Estate Reporters, succinctly captured.

Yet what sets him apart is not the scale of his wealth but the quiet strength of his character. He doesn’t parade his success. Instead, he reinvests it—quietly, effectively, and consistently—into uplifting his community.

As the day wound down, the factory hummed with purpose. A visitor’s passing remarks captured it best: “EBECO doesn’t just make furniture. He builds lives.”

In a country where imported brands often drown out local ingenuity, Chief Ebere Uzozie and his GU Ebeco conglomerate stand tall—proof that Nigerian brands can be world-class, community-rooted, and future-ready. Apart from his established business impact in Nigeria, GU Ebeco ‘s leadership imprint is also acknowledged as he serves as the BOT Chairman of Akuluno United Brothers Association, a leading pan- Igbo socio-cultural organization created for the economic advancement of the South East.