International Breweries Plc, a subsidiary of AB InBev, has reaffirmed its commitment to local sourcing while recognising the contributions of farmers, aggregators, development partners, and government stakeholders to Nigeria’s food system and economic growth.
The brewer of Trophy Lager, Hero Lager, Castle Lite, and Budweiser made this known at its stakeholder symposium, ‘Cheers to Farmers’, held in Lagos. The event highlighted the critical role of agriculture in supporting the brewing industry and the wider economy.
Managing Director of International Breweries Plc, Carlos Coutiño, noted that the company’s success depends on local farmers. “Our beer is only as good as the people who grow what we brew. This session is about recognising their contribution and strengthening a partnership that is building rural economies and transforming lives,” he said.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, represented by Samaila Dauda, described the initiative as a boost to backwards integration and rural development. He said local sourcing empowers farmers, strengthens agro-processing, reduces import dependence, and fosters shared prosperity across communities.
Sen. Abubakar Kyari, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by a director in the ministry, Iwara Edet, also commended the company’s sourcing strategy, noting that agriculture is essential for sustainable industrial development.
Panel discussions at the symposium focused on ‘Farm to Bottle: Strengthening Nigeria’s Agricultural Value Chain through Local Sourcing’, showcasing sorghum, maize, and rice sourced locally for brewing.
Chief Executive Officer of Nikoy Nigeria Limited, Oyedele O.O., one of the pioneer aggregators, explained that the partnership has transformed farmers’ livelihoods. “Farmers can now benefit economically through sustained patronage. Some have even been able to educate their children, contributing to national development,” he said.
Sorghum farmer Abubakar Kabiru from Kaduna shared his experience, saying the collaboration with International Breweries has provided consistent markets, enabling farmers to farm with confidence.
The symposium drew participation from the Federal Ministries of Agriculture and Trade, farmer cooperatives, aggregators, development partners, and international organisations such as the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture.
International Breweries stated that the initiative aligns with AB InBev’s broader vision of local content development, rural empowerment, and sustainable community-focused agribusiness.
