International Breweries Plc, a Nigerian subsidiary of the global brewing giant AB InBev, convened a stakeholder symposium titled “Cheers to Farmers” in Lagos, underscoring its unwavering dedication to local sourcing and celebrating the vital contributions of Nigerian farmers, aggregators, development partners, and government stakeholders to the nation’s food security, economic prosperity, and rural development. The event served as a platform to acknowledge the pivotal role of agriculture in the brewing industry and its broader impact on the Nigerian economy, solidifying the symbiotic relationship between industry and agriculture.
At the heart of the symposium was the recognition of local farmers as the backbone of International Breweries’ success. Carlos Coutiño, Managing Director of International Breweries Plc, emphasized the company’s reliance on the dedication and hard work of these farmers, stating that the quality of their beer is directly linked to the quality of the agricultural produce they source. This commitment to local sourcing is not merely a business strategy but a core element of International Breweries’ broader vision of “brewing a better world,” a vision that begins with empowering the growers at the source of their supply chain. This approach fosters a mutually beneficial relationship where the company’s growth is intrinsically tied to the prosperity of the local farming communities.
High-ranking government officials echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the national significance of International Breweries’ local sourcing initiative. Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, represented by Samaila Dauda, lauded the initiative as a significant boost to backward integration and rural development, key drivers of economic growth and diversification. The minister highlighted how local sourcing empowers farmers, stimulates agro-processing industries, reduces reliance on imports, and distributes wealth across communities, ultimately creating a more resilient and inclusive economy. This endorsement underscores the alignment of International Breweries’ practices with national development goals.
Further solidifying the government’s support, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Iwara Edet, a director in the ministry, commended International Breweries’ sourcing strategy. He emphasized the viability and vital importance of agriculture for sustainable industrial development, showcasing the company as a model for other industries to emulate. This cross-sector collaboration between agriculture and industry is presented as a crucial pathway towards achieving sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.
The symposium delved deeper into the practicalities and impact of local sourcing through panel discussions centered on the theme “Farm to Bottle: Strengthening Nigeria’s Agricultural Value Chain through Local Sourcing.” This session highlighted the journey of locally sourced sorghum, maize, and rice from the farm to the brewing process, showcasing the tangible results of the company’s commitment. The discussions provided a platform for sharing experiences, best practices, and exploring opportunities for further strengthening the agricultural value chain. This exchange of knowledge and ideas is vital for continuous improvement and maximizing the benefits of local sourcing.
The symposium provided a platform for key stakeholders in the agricultural value chain to share their personal experiences and perspectives. Oyedele O.O., Chief Executive Officer of Nikoy Nigeria Limited, one of International Breweries’ pioneer aggregators, testified to the transformative impact of the partnership on the livelihoods of countless farmers. The increased and sustained demand from International Breweries has provided economic stability for farmers, enabling them to invest in their families and communities. He shared stories of peasant farmers who have been able to educate their children, contributing to the development of a skilled workforce and driving national progress.
The voices of the farmers themselves provided a powerful testament to the positive impact of International Breweries’ local sourcing initiative. Abubakar Kabiru, a sorghum farmer from Kaduna, shared his personal transformation. He recounted the previous struggles of finding markets for his produce and the uncertainty that accompanied farming. Now, with the assured market provided by International Breweries, he farms with confidence, knowing his efforts are valued and contribute to a larger purpose. This shift from subsistence farming to market-oriented agriculture represents a significant step towards economic empowerment and improved livelihoods for rural communities.
The symposium served as a gathering point for a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Trade and Investment, farmer cooperatives, aggregators, development partners, and international organizations like the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture. This broad representation highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative and the shared commitment towards building a sustainable agricultural sector in Nigeria. The presence of international organizations underscored the global recognition of the importance of such initiatives in driving sustainable development. The symposium underscored International Breweries’ alignment with AB InBev’s global vision of a sustainable future built on local content, rural empowerment, and community-focused agribusiness, demonstrating a commitment to creating shared value for all stakeholders involved.
