International Breweries Plc (IBPLC), a member of AB InBev Group, has restated its commitment to local sourcing while celebrating farmers and other stakeholders who power its supply chain. At a symposium: “Cheers to Farmers”, the brewer of popular brands brought together government representatives, development partners, aggregators, and farmer cooperatives to highlight agriculture’s central role in Nigeria’s economy.
Managing Director, Carlos Coutiño; “Our beer is only as good as the people who grow what we brew. This session is about recognising your contribution, but more importantly, about strengthening a partnership that is building rural economies and transforming lives.”
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, represented by Samaila Dauda, described the initiative as “a reminder of the link between industry and agriculture,” and lauded IBPLC for advancing Nigeria’s backward integration policy to boost agro-industrial development.
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Abubakar Kyari, minister of Agriculture and Food Security, represented by Iwara Edet, hailed the brewer’s sourcing framework as proof that the private sector can drive sustainable, community-focused agribusiness.
Managing Director of Nikoy Nigeria, Oyedele O.O., said the programme allowed smallholder farmers to improve their livelihoods and sponsor their children’s education.
Farmers shared their experiences. Malam Kabiru, a sorghum farmer from Kaduna, said: “Before IBPLC came into our lives, many of us struggled to find markets for our produce. Today, we farm with confidence, knowing our efforts are valued.”
With stakeholders from ministries, farmer cooperatives, and international agencies in attendance, the symposium underscored IBPLC’s role in supporting national food security, rural prosperity, and sustainable industrial growth.
