Nigerian Bottling Company marks 75yrs, reaffirms commitment to Nigeria
Nigerian Bottling Company Celebrates 75 Years in Nigeria
By Tunde Oso
ABUJA — Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd, a subsidiary of Coca-Cola HBC Group, commemorated its 75th anniversary in Nigeria with a gala event at the Conference Centre on Thursday.
Anastassis G. David, Chairman of Coca-Cola HBC, reflected on the company’s early days during the celebration. He noted that in 1951, Anastasios Leventis secured the rights to operate throughout Nigeria. “It was a significant decision that showcased a belief in Nigeria as a country of exceptional importance, potential, and a promising future,” he said. “This belief in Nigeria’s prospects remains strong today.”
Sola David-Borha, Chairperson of the NBC Board, emphasized that the company’s longevity is built on trust cultivated through consistent and effective governance.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, congratulated NBC on reaching this milestone. He expressed appreciation for the Coca-Cola system’s continued investments in Nigeria. “We welcome companies that are willing to produce locally, develop Nigerian talent, and strengthen supply chains,” Akume said.
Goran Sladic, Managing Director of NBC, remarked on the company’s growth alongside Nigeria over the past 75 years. “We take pride in the opportunities we’ve created and our support for communities and local value chains,” he stated, expressing a commitment to continue this legacy into the future.
Zoran Bogdanovic, Chief Executive Officer of Coca-Cola HBC, underscored the significance of the anniversary. “This milestone means more than just longevity; it reflects our shared history with Nigeria,” he said. He also reiterated the Group’s commitment to invest up to $1 billion in Nigeria over the next five years, contingent upon a stable business environment. Ongoing investments include expanding manufacturing capabilities at the Asejire Plant in Oyo State and the Challawa Plant in Kano State.
In conjunction with the anniversary, Bogdanovic announced a $1.25 million commitment from the Coca-Cola HBC Foundation aimed at supporting young entrepreneurs in Nigeria’s hospitality and food service sectors. The initiative will provide business grants, structured entrepreneurship training, formalization support, and mentorship over three years. “Through this initiative, we hope to create new opportunities for young entrepreneurs,” he said.
Henrique Braun, CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, highlighted the collaboration between Coca-Cola and its bottling partners. “One of our greatest strengths is how we work together to deliver value for the communities we serve,” he said. Braun also mentioned that The Coca-Cola Foundation is working to expand access to safe water in Lagos and Abuja, aiding communities in building resilience for the future.
