Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Nigeria’s Vice President, has praised the Coca-Cola group’s commitment to the Nigerian economy.
On Monday, Osinbajo delivered the commendation at the Coca-Cola System in Nigeria’s 70th Anniversary Gala Dinner in Lagos.
He stated that the company had made repeated investments in Nigeria in the construction of manufacturing facilities across the country, resulting in the creation of thousands of jobs, as well as its active support of all aspects of national life.
According to him, the Coca-Cola System has demonstrated commitment in areas ranging from health to education, from women’s and youth empowerment to sports, all while maintaining a conscious regard for the environment.
“I believe it is fair to say that that commitment has been met with enthusiastic patronage from generations of Nigerians and families, as well as stable careers for staff who have grown with the company over the years.”
“Young people who have found successful careers in sports and entertainment, inspired by your support,” he said. “Consumers from Kano to Lagos, Rivers to Plateau State, linked by distributors in every region of the country, who have also built enduring businesses, getting Coca Cola into the hands of millions of Nigerians.”
According to the vice president, the federal government remained active and sincere in its commitment to creating an environment that allowed the private sector to innovate and thrive in the face of challenges.
“I thank the entire Coca-Cola board, management, and staff, as well as the diverse group of stakeholders present here today and across the country, for your hard work and dedication.”
“Your ongoing investment in the country, which you have stated will be in the order of $1 billion over the next five years, demonstrates your faith in Nigeria’s potential.”
“You can count on the Nigerian government’s and, dare I say, the Nigerian people’s support as you carry out these massive strikes.” So, I wish you all a very happy 70th anniversary, and I hope the years ahead are filled with true magic for you all,” he said.
The Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd and Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd make up the Coca-Cola System.
Mr Matthieu Seguin, Managing Director of Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd, stated in his opening remarks that the company’s 70th anniversary was a testament to its belief and faith in Nigeria.
Seguin stated that the company would continue to empower Nigerians and leave no one behind as it entered the next 70 years of possibilities.
“Seventy years is a huge testament to this country’s resilience and business goals.” We owe our success story, first and foremost, to our people, our employees, for which we are grateful.
“To our customers, you are our treasure, as are our partners and communities who work with us on good and bad days,” he said.
Mr Alfred Olajide, Managing Director of Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd, also spoke, saying that the partnership between NBC and Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd had been a success story for more than 70 years.
According to Olajide, the critical success driver for this was a culture of joint accountability and leveraging the strengths and capabilities on both sides of the business to continue to provide consumers with moments of optimism, refreshment, and excitement.