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Tag: Unilever

  • Unilever Nigeria nets N31b profit

    Unilever Nigeria nets N31b profit

    Unilever Nigeria Plc has released its interim unaudited financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025, reporting a turnover of N215 billion. This represented 44 per cent increase from N150 billion turnover recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.

    Gross profit rose by 32 per cent to N90 billion, while net profit doubled to N31 billion, up from N15 billion in the same period in 2024.

    Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Tobi Adeniyi, said the fourth quarter performance and strong full year outcome reflected the continued momentum from the company’s route‑to‑market expansion, increasingly agile and well optimised operational structure.

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    He added that the company has also seen robust demand across its iconic brands, including Knorr, Close Up, Pepsodent, Vaseline, and Rexona.

    He said: “We have delivered consistent quarter‑on‑quarter topline growth that remains competitive, profitable, and sustainable”.

    He noted that with a proud heritage of more than 100 years of manufacturing in Nigeria, every product and every experience reflected Unilever Nigeria’s legacy of innovation and unwavering commitment to quality.

    “Through our trusted brands, we continue to Brighten Everyday Life for All,” Adeniyi said.

  • Unilever, UK, EY announce £500,000 for West African startups

    Unilever, UK, EY announce £500,000 for West African startups

    Transform West Africa – an impact accelerator led by Unilever, the UK government, and EY – has awarded £500,000 in grant funding to five West African enterprises focused on circularity and regenerative agriculture. These grantees were recognised and celebrated at an event  hosted by the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos.

    The selected organisations will also receive business insight, practical experience, resources and access to networks through Unilever and EY, to scale and maximise their impact.

    TRANSFORM, a global initiative led from the United Kingdom, appointed Nigerian representatives from Unilever, the British High Commission and EY, to guide the selection process. Colleagues in the region leveraged local networks to source enterprises, attracting over 100 applications.

    The winners in Nigeria include: Chanja Datti: A startup decentralising plastic waste processing with Micro-Recycling Plants (MRPs) near waste collection points;

    Planet 3R, A social enterprise enhancing the livelihoods of women and youths in Nigeria by teaching them weaving skills to convert plastic and textile waste into functional goods (e.g., bags, boxes); and

    Scrapays, A digital platform connecting waste producers to aggregators and processors.

    British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Mr Jonny Baxter praised the innovators’ creative approach to plastic waste management, stating: “It’s very promising to see so many strong candidates working to reduce, collect and process plastic waste. With the World Earth Day fast approaching, we’re proud to support three Nigerian enterprises – Scrapays, Chanja Datti, and Planet3R who are demonstrating how digital networks can address recycling challenges and create economic growth while contributing to the global net-zero agenda.”

    Country Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria, Tobi Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of TRANSFORM’s approach which puts decision-making power into the hands of local leaders.

    “At TRANSFORM, we strongly believe that the best solutions are those developed by those closest to the challenge at hand. By tapping into our networks and expertise, we were able to use our local lens to identify the best innovators in the region.” he said.

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    The selected enterprises will be able to receive in-kind support from EY professionals, helping them navigate growth challenges and scale their impact.

    Sr. Partner, Head of Markets – EY West Africa, Ashish Bakhshi also commented: “At EY, we are proud to collaborate with Unilever and BHC on TRANSFORM, where we bring our knowledge, skills and professional experience to support impactful enterprises and foster innovation. We saw many applications from across the region that are coming up with creative, innovative and inspiring solutions towards creating a more sustainable world – and we look forward to harnessing this ecosystem to create a better future for everyone, together.”

    These Nigerian enterprises join thirteen others supported by TRANSFORM in West Africa including WeCyclers, a pioneering rewards-for-recycling platform, incentivising people in low-income communities in Nigeria to exchange recyclable waste for essential goods, and Reeddi Technologies which provides cleaner, more reliable and affordable electricity to households and businesses operating in energy-poor regions through its solar-charged-battery-powered generators, Capsule.

    The thirteen enterprises have reached over 2 million people in West Africa and are part of a wider TRANSFORM global community which have positively impacted the lives of more than 18 million people in 20 countries.

  • Unilever appoints Managing Director

    Unilever appoints Managing Director

    Unilever Nigeria Plc has appointed Tobi Adeniyi as Managing Director. Until his new appointment, Adeniyi was the Sales Director at Unilever Nigeria, and he has built a career in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Industry (FMCG) for the past 15 years.

    He also serves as the Vice Chairman 1 of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Promotion Group (MANEG), which is a group of Nigerian manufacturers who have joined hands together to promote Nigerian non-oil exports.

    Adeniyi is a member of the Institute of Directors (IOD). And his appointment is symbolic considering the last time Unilever Nigeria Plc had a Nigerian Managing Director was in the year 1997 (Rufus Giwa).

    Adeniyi is 39 years old, which would make him potentially the youngest ever Managing Director in modern history of the multinational that has operated in Nigeria for over 100 years and a positive sign of belief in youth.

    He has worked in various capacities spanning Sales to several aspects of the Supply Chain (Logistics, Strategic Planning, Demand/Supply/Material Planning, Innovation Planning, Sales & Operations Planning, Cross-border Sourcing, Procurement, Factory Operations and Project Management).

    Adeniyi has spent a fair share of his career working across Africa and Asia (Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia), and this has broadened his appreciation of cultural influences within the workplace.

    Read Also: Unilever records N103b turnover in third quarter

    His passion is to continuously put Africa and African talent on the global map when it comes to supply chain strategy, processes, and performance, by demonstrating a pioneering spirit.

    The new Unilever boss is a graduate of Computer Engineering (BSc.) from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana and is currently pursuing an executive MBA at Warwick University.

    He is an active stakeholder in fostering and enabling a community of Supply Chain practitioners across Nigeria. He is also a keen advocate for grooming and mentoring the next generation of professional talents in the country, and occasionally serves in advisory/mentorship capacity for some start-up initiatives.

    Adeniyi is married to Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi (a lawyer/public servant) with children. He is an avid fan of Arsenal football club. He was born in Kaduna, and spent his formative years as a child in Warri, before moving to Lagos as a teenager.

  • Unilever records N103b turnover in third quarter

    Unilever records N103b turnover in third quarter

    Despite economic headwinds, Unilever Nigeria Plc post an impressive performance judging by its key fundamentals.

    According to its unaudited interim report for nine months ending September 30, the company recorded turnover of N103.8 billion, which represents 46 per cent topline growth compared to N71.2 billion turnover in 2023.

    The company recorded a gross profit of N42.9 billion for the period, which is 88 per cent increase compared to N22.8 billion reported last year.

    Read Also: Unilever launches new deodorant, unveils campaign

    The result shows a net profit of N11 billion for the period , compared to a net profit for the corresponding period in 2023 of N7.5 billion, which is 47 per cent increase.

    Managing Director, Tim Kleinebenne, said “the consistency in our quarter-on-quarter sustained growth and performance remains a testament that with our Growth Action Plan (GAP), we are committed to serving consumers with our best brands to meet their daily needs of improved health and hygiene.

    ‘‘Unilever Nigeria is pleased with its performance progress riding on the pillars of operational efficiency, cost optimisation, purposeful brands and increasing market share across key categories.”

  • Unilever launches new deodorant, unveils campaign

    Unilever launches new deodorant, unveils campaign

    Unilever has announced the new Rexona deodorant, which boasts 72-hour protection from sweat and odour, while launching its “Stay Dry and Fresh for Longer”  campaign .

    The product leverages cutting-edge motion sense technology with intelligent formula that adapts to movements, releasing more protection.

     “At Unilever, we develop products that meet evolving needs of consumers, and the new Rexona 72 hours deodorant, is a leap in deodorant technology, offering protection from sweat and odour,”said Akintayo Akinseloyin, Beauty, Wellbeing and Personal care Marketing Lead.

     The  launch also commences Rexona’s wider “Stay Fresh and Dry for Longer” campaign.

    This initiative is to educate Nigerians on the science behind sweat and odour production and debunk the misconception showering is enough for complete protection.

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    The campaign seeks to empower Nigerians to take control of their sweat and odour concerns and experience the confidence that comes with staying fresh all day.

     “Stay Dry and Fresh for Longer” campaign will include engaging touchpoints, interactive in-store demonstrations, and social media initiatives.

    These will provide Nigerians with information about daily deodorant use and showcase Rexona’s Motionsense Technology.

    With the launch, Rexona itransforms how Nigerians approach personal hygiene, empowering them to be confident and embrace a life free from sweat and odour concerns.

  • Shareholders approve Unilever Nigeria’s N4.3b dividend

    Shareholders approve Unilever Nigeria’s N4.3b dividend

    Shareholders of Unilever Nigeria yesterday approved payment of N4.3 billion as cash dividends for the 2023 business year.

    Specifically, the company recorded an impressive growth in revenue to N103.9 billion in 2023, representing a 51.3 per cent growth compared to N68.6 billion recorded in 2022.

    Speaking at the company’s annual general meeting, Acting Chairman, Unilever Nigeria Plc, Mr. Micheal Ikpoki expressed appreciation to all shareholders for their support throughout the year despite the challenging environment in the last year.

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    This is just as he promised that the board and management will continue to put in their best in fostering growth and navigating the tides as the Company steers toward more successes.

    “Our resolve as a business is to continue to take strategic decisions that will improve our operational efficiencies to meet citizens’ needs through our brands, our people, and our operations.” 

    According to the financial statement of the Company, profit after tax for the year under review grew to N16.4 billion from N5.4 billion in 2022.

    The shareholders approved the dividend at 75kobo per share, an increase from the 25kobo declared in 2022. The shareholders appreciated this growth and reaffirmed their belief in the leadership of the company to grow the business into the coming year.

    On the improved performance of the business, the Managing Director of Unilever Nigeria Plc, Mr. Tim Kleinebenne said the achievement in the year under review is reflective of a collaborative effort from all key stakeholders and improved operational performance and greater investment in our brands, supply, and distributions, to ensure we meet the needs of consumers across channels.

  • Unilever Nigeria seeks women-driven policies to promote inclusion

    Unilever Nigeria seeks women-driven policies to promote inclusion

    Unilever Nigeria has made a case for inclusion at the workplace, stressing that such will engender balance and fair play at all times.

    Speaking at a panel discussion session with the theme, ‘Equity is’ in commemoration of the International Women’s Day, recently, the Managing Director, Unilever Nigeria, Tim Kleinebenne, stated that the company remains steadfast in its dedication to advancing gender equity and empowering women in the workplace, marketplace, and community.

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    “Through various initiatives and partnerships, we would continue to support the advancement of women in the workplace. We believe strongly in playing our part in building a more equitable society by championing initiatives that foster diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all,” he said.

    Speaking at the panel session, the Chief Executive Officer, Wakanow Nigeria, Adenike Macaulay, explained that women must be ready to support one another to engender inclusion in the workplace and society. “We must be intentional in our support for the next woman. As women, we have to be our cheerleaders. We need to give every woman a voice.”

  • Unilever Nigeria records 51% growth in turnover

    Unilever Nigeria records 51% growth in turnover

    Despite the unfriendly operating climate, business is looking good for Unilever Nigeria Plc.

    According to the unaudited interim report for the twelve months period ended 31st December 2023, the company recorded turnover of N97.4 billion in the period under review which represents 51% topline growth compared to N64.6 billion turnover recorded in the corresponding period in 2022.

    The company recorded a gross profit of N29.8 billion for the period ended 31st December 2023 which is 13% increase versus N26.3 billion reported for same period 2022.

    The Net profit for the total business grew 91% to N8.5 billion for the period ended 31st December 2023 compared to the N4.5bn net profit from the corresponding period in 2022.

    Besides, the Net profit from ongoing operations, adjusting for portfolio changes made in 2023, grew 106% to N12.3 billion for the period ended 31st December 2023 compared to the like-for-like portfolio net profit of N6.0 billion for the corresponding period in 2022.

    In the view of the Managing Director, Tim Kleinebenne, “These positive results show Unilever Nigeria remains focused on the delivery of competitive, consistent, profitable, and responsible growth.

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    “Unilever Nigeria made great progress in 2023 through operational efficiency, cost optimisation, the right portfolio of purposeful brands and increasing market share across key categories.”

    While noting that Unilever Nigeria will continue to strengthen its operations in the country to meet citizen’s needs through “our best brands, our people and our operations,” he added that as the longest serving manufacturing company in Nigeria that celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2023, Unilever Nigeria is here to stay, fully committed to carry on serving Nigerians with great locally made brands while making a positive socioeconomic contribution to the country.

    Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Beauty & Wellbeing, Personal Care, Home Care, Nutrition, and Ice Cream products, with sales in over 190 countries and products used by 3.4 billion people every day.

    Unilever Nigeria is a locally listed business that has been operating for over 100 years selling brands such as Knorr, Royco, Vaseline, Pepsodent and Closeup.

  • We’re here to stay, says Unilever Nigeria MD at centenary

    We’re here to stay, says Unilever Nigeria MD at centenary

    Unilever Nigeria has no plan to leave the country, the Managing Director Tim Kleinebenne, has said.

    He reinforced its commitment to Nigeria, saying the company is here to stay.

    “Unilever Nigeria’s remarkable journey of a hundred years signifies our unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability, interest and passion to remain in Nigeria for the long haul.

    “We are here to stay. We are the future and a force for good through our brands and operations,” he said.

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and his Lagos counterpart Babajide Sanwo-Olu joined other stakeholders to celebrate Unilever Nigeria for its centenary anniversary commemoration.

    Abiodun led the way, lauding the dedication of Unilever Nigeria to social responsibility initiatives, such as educational programmes and environmental sustainability projects, which have made positive differences in the lives of Nigerians.

    He highlighted the relevance of Unilever, saying: “The presence of Unilever Nigeria has spurred socioeconomic developments in Ogun State, which has its largest factory in Nigeria.

    “Through its operations, it is enhancing the local capabilities of our people with the right skills to add value to themselves and the country.

    “We will continue to foster and improve the ease of doing business in our state to spur more developments by manufacturers like Unilever Nigeria.”

    Lagos Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade, and Investment (CCT&I), Folasade Ambrose-Medebem, who represented Sanwo-Olu, said: “Unilever’s century-long journey is not just a testament to corporate excellence, but a legacy of impact, partnership, and innovation that has woven itself into the fabric of our lives.

    “From humble beginnings to a beacon of sustainability and social responsibility, Unilever Nigeria’s commitment to collaboration and progress as a guiding light for a brighter future.

    “As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, let us not only applaud the achievements of the past but also embrace the promise of the future.

    “Congratulations, Unilever Nigeria, on a century of excellence. May even greater success and positive impact mark the next hundred years!”

    Other guests present at the event included the Deputy British High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, Dutch Consul-General. Michel Deelen, members of the Unilever Board led by the Chairman, His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, the Unilever Nigeria Leader Team led by Tim Kleinebenne and other critical stakeholders from the public and private sectors.

    Commending Unilever for the milestone achievements that have made the company the longest-serving manufacturing British company in Nigeria, the British Deputy High Commissioner in Lagos, Jonny Baxter said: “There are still many opportunities to invest in Nigeria across various sectors, including energy, infrastructure development, financial services, education, agriculture, technology and more. We would like to see more UK businesses setting up here in the long term to increase our bilateral trade ties and mutual prosperity.”

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    The Chairman of Unilever Nigeria PLC, His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, in a celebratory mood, expressed his delight to have been a part of the success stories of the longest-standing manufacturing company in Nigeria. “Unilever Nigeria has a rich history of innovation and has played a significant role in developing Nigeria’s economy and society. The company is committed to making sustainable living commonplace and is working to reduce its environmental impact and improve the lives of its employees and the communities it serves. Unilever Nigeria is proudly a Nigerian company committed to continuing to invest in and support the country’s future.”

    As Unilever Nigeria celebrates its centenary, the company looks forward to a future of continued growth, sustainability, and positive impact with a commitment to continue working with its partners to build a brighter future for Nigerians. In the next hundred years, the company will continue to harness the power of its people, brands, and partnerships to tackle the most pressing issues and make sustainable living commonplace.

    Unilever is one of the world’s leading suppliers of Beauty, Wellbeing, Personal Care, Home Care, Nutrition, and Ice Cream products, with sales in over 190 countries and products used by 3.4 billion people every day. Unilever Nigeria is a locally listed business that has been operating for 100 years selling brands such as Knorr, Vaseline, Closeup, Pepsodent, Royco and Pears.

  • Unilever rewards drivers, mulls zero road fatality for transporters

    Unilever rewards drivers, mulls zero road fatality for transporters

    As part of its unwavering commitment towards sustainable living and safety practices amongst transporters, Unilever Nigeria Plc rewarded a few of its drivers for outstanding performance thus far.

    At a weeklong event to herald the 2023 Transporters’ Safety Week in Agbara, Ogun State, the management spared no expense to celebrate as well as recognise the drivers who have continuously set stores by the ideals and ideas of the company’s dedication to the safety, security, and wellbeing of its transporters and fleet managers.

    Speaking at the event, The Planning & Go-To-Market Director, Unilever Nigeria, Tobi Adeniyi, articulated the significance of this year’s theme, ‘Sáfèty lókàn, shëy jéjé,’ by describing it as what embodies its  collective effort in setting and maintaining the golden standard for safety.

    According to him, through the support of government road transport agencies, the transporters are reminded of best safety practices that include defensive driving training, health talks/medical checkup and cargo security training.

    The grand finale of the celebrations focuses on the recognition of exemplary drivers and transport companies that have upheld safety standards to the highest order, he added.

    “We are pleased with the positive response we get from our team of transporters for upholding safety standards. As a business, Unilever puts the safety of its people first,” Adeniyi said, adding that as Unilever celebrates its 100 years in Nigeria this year, “safety has been a key part of our operations that we have upheld over the years. Through the years our impact cuts across several sectors, enabling us to contribute to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.”

    Read Also: Unilever Nigeria grows Q3 turnover by 26%

    Echoing similar sentiments, Unilever’s Africa Safety, Health, and Environment Manager, Mahlatse Lekalakala, noted the profound impact of the annual safety week on the company’s zero-fatality initiative.

    “Over the past four years, this initiative has significantly contributed to our drive for zero fatalities. We have seen encouraging results and I commend our transportation partners for embracing and upholding safety standards within and beyond our facilities,” he said. Among the transporters recognised this year is Alexander Ogunrinde from Oritsetimeyin Logistics Ltd. (OLL) who secured the overall best performance drivers award.

    Expressing his gratitude, Ogunrinde said, “We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Unilever for consistently upholding their commitments to their logistics partners.”