Nigeria: International Breweries commits to increasing local input sourcing

International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), a proud part of AB InBev – the world’s largest brewer, has restated its commitment to increase the use of locally sourced raw materials in its production processes, Punch Newspapers reported on September 4.

This will help reduce the brewer’s FX exposure, positively impact the local economy, support farmers and suppliers and enhance the company’s sustainability efforts.

Carlos Coutiño, managing director of International Breweries Plc, who made this known at a recent symposium tagged ‘Cheers to Farmers,’ highlighted the crucial role farmers play in the brewing process and Nigeria’s economy.

“Our beer is only as good as the people who grow what we brew. At International Breweries, we believe in brewing a better world and that starts with our growers,” he said.

He noted that the event is about recognising farmers’ contribution and, more importantly, “it’s about strengthening a partnership that is building rural economies and transforming lives.”

Jumoke Oduwole, minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, in her goodwill message, commended IBPLC’s leadership in advancing Nigeria’s backward integration policy through increased local sourcing, agro-industrial partnerships, and MSME support.

Oduwole, who was represented by Samaila Dauda, from the federal ministry, said the event is “a powerful reminder of the crucial link between industry and agriculture.”

“By sourcing raw materials locally, industries like yours are empowering farmers, boosting agro processing, reducing import dependence, and creating shared prosperity across communities,” she said.

“IBPLC has demonstrated leadership not only in business growth but also in corporate citizenship, employment creation, and investment in local content, and we salute your efforts for that,” she added.

Also, Abubakar Kyari, minister of Agriculture and Food Security, who was represented by Iwara Edet, a director at the ministry, appreciated the company’s approach to local sourcing.

“International Breweries’ commitment to sourcing locally is commendable. They’re proving that agriculture is not just viable but vital for sustainable industrial development.”

In a panel discussion, Oyedele O.O., CEO of Nikoy Nigeria Ltd, one of IBPLC’s pioneer aggregators, explained the impact of IBPLC’s local sourcing initiative.

According to him, his organisation has the privilege of being one of the first set of millers to partner with International Breweries when they started their local sourcing programme.

He noted that since then, IB’s local raw materials usage has continued to grow.

“One significant effect of this is that the farmers are able to benefit economically through the increased and sustained patronage of International Breweries,” he said.

“Interestingly, some of them, though peasant farmers, have been able to meet their daily financial obligations, including being able to sponsor their children to school,”he explained.

“Today, many of them now have educated children and even professionals in different fields and contributing their own quota to the growth and development of our country, Nigeria,” he added.

Malam Abubakar Kabiru, a sorghum farmer from Kaduna, shared how working within the IBPLC aggregator network changed his story.

“Working with IBPLC has changed my story. Before IBPLC came into our lives, many of us struggled to find markets for our produce. Today, we farm with confidence, knowing that our efforts are valued. The support we’ve received has helped improve our livelihoods and given hope to our communities.”

The Cheers to Farmers symposium brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including farmers, aggregators, government representatives, development partners, and retailers, reflecting the strength of collaboration across the entire agricultural value chain.

The event was dedicated to celebrating the importance and contributions of farmers, aggregators, development partners, and public sector stakeholders who play a pivotal role in sustaining Nigeria’s food system and driving economic growth.

04 September, 2025