British American Tobacco (Nigeria) Limited (BAT Nigeria) is commemorating two decades of impactful operations at its Ibadan factory, a milestone that reflects exceptional contributions to the Nigerian economy, environmental sustainability, and local communities. Established in 2003, the Ibadan factory has been a cornerstone of BAT Nigeria’s operations in West and Central Africa, serving as a hub for exports to 11 countries in the region and recently expanding to the United States.
Yarub Al-Bahrani, Managing Director at BAT Nigeria and West and Central Africa, expressed pride in the Ibadan factory’s journey. “Two decades ago, we embarked on a journey to establish a world-class manufacturing facility in Nigeria, and today, we are proud to celebrate the Ibadan factory as a shining example of our commitment to excellence and sustainability in Nigeria,” said Al-Bahrani. He emphasized the factory’s pivotal role in contributing to the Nigerian economy, creating employment opportunities, and promoting environmental stewardship.
Beyond commercial success, the Ibadan factory has prioritized environmental sustainability, implementing a comprehensive management system with measures to reduce its carbon footprint. Notable achievements include significant reductions in energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation. The factory’s commitment to environmental sustainability is underscored by the upcoming unveiling of a 1.4MWP grid-tied solar panel system on February 6, 2024.
The Ibadan factory’s focus on water stewardship has earned certifications, including the prestigious ‘Alliance for Water Stewardship’ (AWS) core certification. Odiri Erewa-Meggison, Director of External Affairs at BAT, West, and Central Africa, highlighted BAT Nigeria’s commitment to a Better Tomorrow™. She emphasized the factory’s integral role in the Nigerian community, providing direct and indirect employment opportunities for thousands of Nigerians from diverse backgrounds.
Erewa-Meggison expressed gratitude for the partnerships formed over the past 20 years with various stakeholders. The anniversary celebration serves as a tribute to the factory’s accomplishments, acknowledging the dedication and hard work of employees, partners, and stakeholders who have played vital roles in shaping BAT Nigeria’s growth and journey.
As BAT Nigeria marks this significant milestone, the company looks forward to celebrating more accomplishments and making positive contributions to the Nigerian community.