BATN Appoints Kola Karim As Advisory Board Chairman

Raheem Akingbolu

British American Tobacco Nigeria (BAT Nigeria) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kola Karim as its Advisory Board Chairman, effective November 1, 2023.

Kola Karim the Agbaoye of Ibadanland and currently the Managing Director and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Shoreline Energy International, has over two decades of distinguished career span brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role at BAT Nigeria. As the MD of Shoreline, he has successfully led the company in navigating complex challenges and driving sustainable growth.

In his capacity as BAT’s Advisory Board Chairman, he will provide strategic guidance and oversight to BAT Nigeria, leveraging his extensive leadership experience and industry knowledge to support the company’s continued success in the dynamic and evolving market.

Speaking on his appointment, Yarub Al Bahrani, Managing Director, BAT West and Central Africa, said, “We are pleased to welcome such a distinguished expert to chair our advisory board as his proven track record of leadership makes him an excellent fit. We believe that under his guidance, BAT will continue to thrive, delivering value to our stakeholders and upholding the highest standards of corporate governance in realising BAT’s A Better Tomorrow™ purpose”.

“Kola Karim’s appointment aligns seamlessly with our strategic goals, and we look forward to the valuable contributions he will make to our organisation”. Yarub noted.

Commenting on his appointment, Kola Karim, expressed his delight, stating, “I am honoured to take on the role of Chairman on the BAT Advisory board. The company is renowned for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and responsible business practices. I am eager to work collaboratively with the board and management to contribute to the continued success of BAT.”

BAT has been involved in the manufacturing business in Nigeria for over 100 years, contributing to the domestic production and diversification of the country’s economy beyond oil. In 2003, it commissioned its world class state of the art $185Million Factory in Ibadan, Oyo State. BAT has been recognized as one of the top 10 consistent non-oil exporter putting ‘Made in Nigeria’ goods on the West and Central Africa map.

Through this Advisory Board, BAT reinforces its long-term commitment to doing business in Nigeria and its pledge to continue to invest, so long as the company is empowered to do this in a conducive business environment.