Chinedu Obasi knew that speeches could inspire, but results cemented faith. The AU applause meant nothing if skeptical leaders returned home to empty promises.
He accelerated flagship projects:
Imperial Power unveiled the first solar mega-farm in Anambra, feeding into the national grid.
Imperial Construction fast-tracked the final phase of Enugu's modern highways, drone-filmed and broadcast across the continent.
Imperial Communications launched a pilot program in three states, offering faster, cheaper internet access and digital bill payments.
Each project was carefully timed to coincide with AU media coverage, proof that he was not just talking.
He greenlit expansion into Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana—low tariffs on Imperial Farms' exports, trial routes for Imperial Transport, and scouting for Imperial Malls. Presidents who had nodded politely during his AU speech now saw tangible benefits. Small but symbolic groundbreakings made headlines: "Obasi brings Nigerian investment to Abidjan."
But in Brussels, Berlin, and Paris, the tone soured. European papers warned of "Obasi's monopoly march." Behind closed doors, bankers and oil executives whispered about buying a stake in Imperial Holdings—not as investors, but as a way to control.
A confidential cable from a European ambassador, later leaked, read:
"Imperial Holdings' expansion threatens established interests. If unchecked, Obasi will reduce Europe's influence over African trade. Options must be explored—pressure, partnership, or destabilization."
Within weeks, European representatives sent polished offers: billions for a "strategic stake" in Imperial Holdings. On paper, they promised technology transfer and market access. In reality, it was a leash.
Chinedu refused, politely but firmly. "Imperial Holdings," he told them, "is for Africa first. Partnership, yes. Control, no."
The rejection echoed like a slap across continents. From then on, he knew: this was no longer business as usual.
Tunde raised the question during a late-night strategy session:
"Boss, if they push harder—sanctions, lawsuits, influence—are we ready?"
Chinedu only smiled.
"Let them come. Every empire is tested. Ours will be tested too. But when the people stand with you, no outsider can take what is yours."