BATN Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Ibadan

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

The Chairman, BAT Nigeria Advisory Board, Chief Kola Karim, has said celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Ibadan factory of the company is nothing but a success linked to tangible achievements.

Speaking at the 20th anniversary of the British American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria, held at Ibadan factory, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, noted that the company is a true reflection of a multinational, which has been a partner in progress with the country since its inception. 

Karim while calling for government’s continued support and partnership for companies like BATN that are generating revenue, manufacturing for both local and exports and creating employment, especially in the current economic climate, stated that BAT is a clear proof that it is possible to run a successful business in Nigeria.

He said, “This way, government is able to deliver on its promises to the Nigerian people through continued collaboration.”

The Managing Director of BAT in West and Central Africa, Yarub Al-Bahrani, in his welcome address, said the heavy investments made by the company in the last two decades have shown that the company is not just in Nigeria to stay but has shown its commitment to continually be a partner in progress with Nigeria.

According to him, BATN has in the last two decades, been at the forefront of manufacturing excellence and has produced high-quality productions that extends across the world. 

The Minister of Industry, Trade & Investment, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, in her goodwill message, extolled BATN for its immense contributions to the economic development of Nigeria. 

According to her, “Over 48 per cent of BATN’s input is sourced locally, its presence has attracted additional investment in the establishment of a $30m packaging factory in the same community by its packaging partner and BAT Nigeria undertakes recycling and green energy projects in its surrounding community.”