Tag: Nigeria

  • Research: THR Plan May Save 400,000 Nigerian Lives

    Research: THR Plan May Save 400,000 Nigerian Lives

    Credit: Rawpixel

    New research by leading international health experts has found that more than 400,000 Nigerian lives could be saved if policymakers adopt a progressive approach to tobacco harm reduction (THR).

    The report, released on Nov. 19, outlines how integrating alternative nicotine products such as vapes and nicotine pouches into Nigeria’s tobacco control framework could dramatically reduce the nation’s smoking-related death toll.

    According to the report, Saving 600,000 Lives in Nigeria and Kenya, 3.5 million Nigerians currently smoke, and each year 26,851 Nigerians die from smoking-related illnesses. While the World Health Organization (WHO) projects that smoking-related deaths will drop to 18,000 annually by 2060, experts argue that the number remains far too high.

    By adopting THR strategies, the researchers estimate that the annual smoking-related death toll could be reduced to 7,600 by 2060, saving over 416,000 lives in the process.

    Derek Yach

    “We have a clear opportunity to reduce the burden of smoking-related diseases in Nigeria significantly,” said Derek Yach, one of the report’s authors and former leader of the Foundation for a Smoke Free World. “By embracing safer alternatives like vapes and nicotine pouches, Nigeria can drastically lower smoking-related deaths and help people who smoke quit more effectively. Tobacco harm reduction is the key to saving lives and improving public health in Nigeria.”

    The use of THR products has already been proven to reduce smoking rates in countries such as the UK, Sweden, Japan and New Zealand. In these nations, the widespread adoption of e-cigarettes and other nicotine alternatives has led to a marked decline in cigarette consumption, the leading cause of smoking-related diseases, according to an emailed press release.

    Delon Human

    “The success stories from other countries are undeniable,” said Dr. Delon Human, co-author of the report and founder of the African Harm Reduction Alliance. “In nations where tobacco harm reduction is embraced, smoking rates are dropping, and lives are being saved. Nigeria can achieve similar results by adopting a more inclusive tobacco control policy incorporating standard measures and access to these life-saving alternatives.”

    The report calls on Nigerian policymakers to take bold steps in reducing smoking-related harm by considering the introduction of safer nicotine products into the national health strategy. Nigeria could make significant progress toward its public health goals by offering people who smoke alternatives that are far less harmful than combustible cigarettes.

    “As Nigeria’s leaders continue to refine tobacco control measures, they have a unique opportunity to reduce smoking-related harm while empowering people who smoke with the tools to quit,” Yach added. “With the right policy choices, Nigeria can not only improve the health of its citizens but also set an example for the rest of Africa.

  • BAT Pays Fine in Nigeria

    BAT Pays Fine in Nigeria

    Photo: Confidence

    BAT and several of its affiliates have paid a $110 million fine for violating Nigerian competition laws, reports  Independent.

    Speaking during a media briefing, Adamu Abdullahi, acting executive vice chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), said the full $110 million had been paid at the official exchange rate at that time through the Central Bank of Nigeria.

    “The federal government received 40 percent of the amount while 60 percent went to the FCCPC,” Abdullahi was quoted as saying.

    He described the case as watertight, adding that the FCCPC conducted thorough investigations on the tobacco company.

    Abdullahi further revealed that the FCCPC is currently monitoring the activities of another major tobacco company for compliance with international conventions, the National Tobacco Control Act and other regulations, and to prevent potential anti-competitive practices.

    “The commission has launched a multifaceted campaign to combat underage tobacco use and protect vulnerable populations,” he said.

  • Nollywood to Show Tobacco Warnings

    Nollywood to Show Tobacco Warnings

    Image: alexlmx

    The Nigerian government will adopt new measures to limit how tobacco can be depicted in Nollywood, one of the world’s largest film industries, according to the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

    The first such measure in Africa, the new rules require filmmakers to display health warning labels at the beginning and end of films depicting tobacco or nicotine. In addition, they will have to show health warnings during scenes that depict tobacco or nicotine use.

    Filmmakers may not include tobacco or nicotine brands on screen and prevent any brand marketing in their products.

    The measures cover movies, music videos and skits produced in Nollywood.

    Last year, India became the first country to regulate how tobacco use could be depicted on streaming platforms.

    In February, the parties to the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control adopted measures to restrict tobacco advertising in entertainment and social media.

    A recent report by the Truth Initiative suggests that tobacco imagery has been surging in social media, in music videos and in movies.

  • Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence

    Celebrating Two Decades of Excellence

    Odiri Erewa-Meggison

    Odiri Erewa-Meggison reflects on the significance of BAT’s Ibadan factory in Nigeria as it celebrates its 20th anniversary.

    Contributed

    This year, BAT celebrates the 20th anniversary of its Ibadan factory in Nigeria. To mark the occasion, Precise Platform, a PR agency, interviewed Odiri Erewa-Meggison, external affairs director of BAT West and Central Africa.

    Precise Platform: Please tell us about the significance of celebrating 20 years of manufacturing excellence for your organization.

    Odiri Erewa-Meggison: Celebrating 20 years of manufacturing excellence holds immense significance for BAT West and Central Africa on several fronts. Firstly, it marks a significant milestone in our journey, showcasing two decades of dedication, innovation and resilience in the manufacturing industry within the region. This achievement underscores our commitment to quality, responsible and sustainable business practices in all aspects of our operations.

    [We are] celebrating our two decades of quality output, impacts and milestones despite the economic challenges and regulatory changes that have made a lot of foreign companies quit their investments in the country. We are able to adapt to the market dynamics and impact on our operating environment with over 350,000 job opportunities and boost the economy of the nation through our export operation.

    From the excellent productions in our Ibadan factory, we export to 11 West and Central Africa countries and recently to the USA, with $110 million annual foreign exchange from export, among other socioeconomic impacts. These achievements, which are worth celebrating, speak volumes of our strong contributions and the vital roles British American Tobacco has played in driving economic growth with social progress in our operating environment and also provide an opportunity for us to express gratitude to our employees, partners and stakeholders, whose unwavering support and dedication have been instrumental in our success. Their commitment and passion have been integral to our journey toward manufacturing excellence.

    In essence, celebrating 20 years of manufacturing excellence is not just about looking back at past achievements but also about looking forward with optimism and determination toward a future of continued success and positive impact as BAT Nigeria is here for the long haul.

    How has BAT Nigeria’s Ibadan factory evolved and grown its manufacturing capabilities while achieving sustainability milestones over the past two decades?

    British American Tobacco Nigeria has undergone substantial evolution and growth in terms of its manufacturing capabilities, reflecting its commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of the market and its stakeholders. BAT Nigeria has continually invested in upgrading its manufacturing facilities with cutting-edge technologies. These advancements have enhanced production efficiency and quality control measures, enabling the company to stay competitive in the manufacturing industry.

    Also, BAT Nigeria places a strong emphasis on maintaining high-quality standards across its manufacturing operations. The company adheres to stringent quality control protocols and certifications to ensure that our operations meet or exceed both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for safety.

    We have also integrated sustainability practices into our manufacturing processes, aiming to minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility. In order to reduce our carbon footprint, in 2022, we transitioned from diesel[-powered] to gas-powered generation, and in 2023, we installed our 1.4-megawatt solar plant in our manufacturing facility, which was recently launched by the executive governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, during our 20th anniversary celebration. We also installed a wastewater treatment plant with a 30,000-cubic-meter storage capacity to recycle and reuse all wastewater. This earned us the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) certificate. These initiatives encompass our evolution and efforts to reduce energy consumption, minimize waste generation [and] support local communities, to promote responsible business practices within the manufacturing sector.

    The success of BAT Nigeria’s manufacturing operations, particularly at the Ibadan factory, can be attributed to several key strategies and initiatives that have been instrumental in achieving milestones, beginning with our investment in the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and sustainable technologies that enable efficient resource utilization and minimize environmental impact. These strategies have led to 100 percent waste recycling and transitioning from diesel to gas operation at our Ibadan facility.

    BAT fosters a culture of continuous improvement, where employees are encouraged to identify opportunities for optimization and innovation across all aspects of manufacturing operations. We also work closely with our suppliers and partners to promote responsible sourcing practices and ensure the integrity of our supply chain. This proactive approach enables the implementation of cost-saving measures, quality enhancements and sustainability initiatives.

    Another factor that has contributed to the success we are celebrating is our large investments in human capital training and development programs to equip employees with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in their roles and contribute to manufacturing excellence. This includes technical training on operating equipment, safety protocols and environmental stewardship practices.

    How does BAT Nigeria guarantee the highest quality standards in its manufacturing processes while simultaneously prioritizing sustainability and environmental considerations, as outlined by the AWS and the International Renewable Energy Certificates (IREC)?

    We implement rigorous quality control measures at every stage of the manufacturing process, from sourcing raw materials to packaging finished products. This includes comprehensive testing, inspections and audits to ensure that our products meet or exceed regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for safety, consistency and quality.

    By adhering to internationally recognized certifications and standards for quality management, environmental management, and occupational health and safety, we foster a culture of continuous improvement, where employees are empowered to identify opportunities for enhancing quality, efficiency and sustainability in manufacturing operations. This includes implementing lean manufacturing principles, conducting root cause analyses and investing in training and development to drive continuous improvement initiatives.

    By prioritizing quality, sustainability and environmental considerations in our manufacturing practices, we not only meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations but also contribute to the long-term viability and resilience of our business and the well-being of the communities and environments in which we operate.

    BAT Nigeria prioritizes maintaining the highest quality standards in its manufacturing processes while adhering to sustainability and environmental principles outlined by the Alliance for Water Stewardship and the International Renewable Energy Certificates.

    Our dedication to sustainability extends beyond energy efficiency and waste reduction. We prioritize responsible water management practices, evident in our state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant. This impressive facility boasts a 30,000-cubic-meter storage capacity, allowing us to capture and treat all effluent wastewater generated during production. This commitment to water stewardship ensures no untreated wastewater is released into the environment.

    More importantly, we don’t simply treat the wastewater; we reuse it. In 2023 alone, we successfully recycled a significant amount—17,388 cubic meters of treated wastewater. This recycled water is likely used for noncritical processes within the factory, reducing our dependence on freshwater resources.

    This approach exemplifies our commitment to minimizing our environmental impact and operating responsibly. By effectively managing our wastewater, we not only conserve precious freshwater resources but also demonstrate our alignment with the principles set forth by the AWS certification that we hold.

    The IREC compliance translates to our using energy-efficient machinery and exploring renewable energy sources in line with the recently commissioned 1.4 MW solar plant. This reduces the factory’s dependence on fossil fuels and lowers our carbon footprint.

    This multifaceted approach allows BAT Nigeria to be a leader in manufacturing excellence. We believe this commitment to quality, sustainability and responsibility sets us apart and contributes to a brighter future.

    As BAT Nigeria celebrates two decades of manufacturing excellence in a multi-category industry, how will you leverage your achievements to further enhance and sustain your competitive advantage? Additionally, how does your annual environmental, social and governance (ESG) forum contribute to this strategy, fostering collaboration and innovation for a sustainable future?

    As we celebrate 20 years of manufacturing excellence, we are committed to further enhancing and sustaining our organization’s competitive advantage in the industry through strategic initiatives and forward-thinking plans. Here are some of our key plans:

    We will continue to invest in cutting-edge technologies beyond what we have achieved so far and innovation to optimize our manufacturing processes, improve efficiency and enhance product quality.

    We will reinforce our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship by implementing additional initiatives to minimize our environmental footprint, reduce waste generation and promote responsible sourcing practices. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability, we will sustain our recycling cigarette butts initiative and annually hold our private sector ESG forum to continually drive our advocacy for a sustainable environment in alignment with the sustainable development goals.

    By implementing these plans and initiatives, we aim to further enhance and sustain our organization’s competitive advantage in the industry, ensuring continued success and growth for the next 20 years and beyond.

    Our annual ESG forum plays a critical role in these strategies by fostering collaboration and innovation for a sustainable future. The forum brings together industry stakeholders, experts and thought leaders. This allows BAT Nigeria to share its own sustainability journey and learnings while also gaining valuable insights from others.

    Added to this, by facilitating open discussions on key ESG challenges and solutions, the forum fosters collaboration across the industry. This can lead to the development of innovative approaches to tackling environmental and social issues.

    The ESG forum allows BAT Nigeria to stay abreast of emerging trends and best practices in sustainability. This ensures we can continuously adapt and improve our strategies to maintain a competitive edge in a future increasingly focused on ESG performance.

    Is there any message or reflection you would like to share with the employees, stakeholders and customers who have been a part of this 20-year journey of manufacturing excellence?

    I would like to extend my appreciation to all our employees and stakeholders, who have been integral to our 20-year journey of manufacturing excellence. The BAT Nigeria team’s unwavering support, dedication and commitment have been instrumental to our success and achievements over the years.

    As we reflect on this milestone, we are reminded of the collective efforts, resilience and passion that have propelled us forward, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties. Together, we have overcome obstacles, embraced opportunities, and [we] continuously strive for excellence in everything we do.

    As we embark on the next phase of our journey, we remain committed to upholding the highest standards of excellence and sustainability in all aspects of our operations. Together, we will continue to innovate, collaborate and lead the way toward a future of continued success and positive impact.

    Thank you for being a part of our 20-year journey of manufacturing excellence. Here’s to many more years of partnership, growth and shared achievements ahead.

  • BAT Nigeria Celebrates Factory Anniversary

    BAT Nigeria Celebrates Factory Anniversary

    From left to right: Chief Kola Karim, chairman of the BAT Nigeria (BATN) advisory board; Odiri Erewa-Meggison, director, external affairs for BAT’s West, and Central Africa business; and Yarub Al-Bahrani, managing director at BAT Nigeria and West and Central Africa. (Photo: BAT Nigeria)

    British American Tobacco Nigeria is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its Ibadan factory. Established in 2003, the Ibadan factory has been a cornerstone of BAT Nigeria’s operations in West and Central Africa, enabling exports to 11 countries in the West and Central Africa region, and recently exporting to the U.S. 

    “Two decades ago, we embarked on a journey to establish a world-class manufacturing facility in Nigeria, and today, we are proud to celebrate the Ibadan factory as a shining example of our commitment to excellence and sustainability in Nigeria,” said Yarub Al-Bahrani, managing director at BAT Nigeria and West and Central Africa.

    “The factory has played a pivotal role in our success, contributing significantly to the Nigerian economy, creating employment opportunities across the value chain, and promoting environmental stewardship”, he added.

    The Ibadan factory has implemented a comprehensive environmental management system, incorporating stringent measures to reduce its carbon footprint. According to BAT, these efforts have resulted in significant reductions in energy consumption, water usage and waste generation.

    On Feb. 6, Ibadan will unveil its 1.4MWP grid-tied solar panel system. Its advocacy for water stewardship has been recognized with various certifications, including the prestigious Alliance for Water Stewardship core certification.

    Speaking on the factory’s milestone, BAT’s director of external affairs for West and Central Africa, Odiri Erewa-Meggison, asserted that BAT Nigeria has remained steadfast in its commitment to driving ‘A Better Tomorrow,’ [the company’s corporate slogan] while prioritizing safety, sustainability and responsible business practices.

    “The Ibadan factory is not just a manufacturing facility; it is an integral part of the Nigerian community and we are continuously committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those around us,” she said.

    Erewa-Meggison stated that the anniversary celebration will serve as a tribute to the accomplishments and successes of the factory. “This is an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of all employees, partners and stakeholders who have played a vital role in shaping our growth and journey,” she added. “We look forward to celebrating more milestones and positive contributions of the factory.”

  • BAT Nigeria Pays Anti-Competition Fine

    BAT Nigeria Pays Anti-Competition Fine

    Image: Maksym Kapliuk

    British American Tobacco has settled a $110 million fine imposed for abusing its market dominance in Nigeria, reports The Leadership.

    In Dec. 30 statement, BAT’s external affairs director for west and central Africa, Odiri Erewa-Meggison, said the penalty pertained to an investigation previously disclosed by the company in its 2022 annual report and updated in its half-year report for June 30, 2023.

    Nigeria’s Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) started investigating BAT in 2020 and obtained a federal court order to search multiple BAT sites and those of service providers for evidence used in a forensic analysis.

    Among other transgressions, BAT had penalized retailers for providing equal platforms for its competitors’ products, according to the FCCPC.

    The competition watchdog will monitor BAT for 24 months to ensure appropriate behavior and business practice consistent with prevailing competition laws and tobacco control efforts.

    The fine, which is not eligible for appeal, is the highest ever levied by the Nigerian competition commission.

    Erewa-Meggison further acknowledged the monitorship and awareness campaigns stipulated in the consent order, confirming that BAT Nigeria has fully cooperated with the FCCPC’s appointed service providers.

  • BAT Nigeria Fined for Dominance Abuse

    BAT Nigeria Fined for Dominance Abuse

    Image: alexlmx

    British American Tobacco Nigeria has been fined $110 million fine following allegations of market dominance abuse and infringement of public health regulations, reports Reuters.

    The Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) said BAT had also penalized retailers for providing equal platforms for its competitors’ products.

    The fine, which is not eligible for appeal, is the highest ever levied by the Nigerian competition commission.

    The FCCPC started investigating BAT in 2020 and obtained a federal court order to search multiple BAT sites and those of service providers for evidence used in a forensic analysis.

    The competition watchdog will monitor BAT for 24 months to ensure appropriate behavior and business practice consistent with prevailing competition laws and tobacco control efforts, the FCCPC wrote on X.

    “In exchange for BAT parties fulfilling their obligations under the consent order, the commission withdrew pending criminal charges against BAT Nigeria and at least one employee with respect to obstructing the commission,” the FCCPC wrote.

  • Grants Under Scrutiny

    Grants Under Scrutiny

    Image: Piotr Pawinski

    A corporate accountability group is urging Nigeria to investigate the Export Expansion Grant (EEG) awarded to tobacco companies by previous governments, reports the Daily Trust.

    The EEG is a post-shipment incentive to encourage indigenous companies to expand the volume and value of their exports.

    The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) made its call on Dec. 1, after the chairman of the Presidential Committee on Tax Reforms and Fiscal policy suggested that Nigeria’s administration of tax waivers fell short in terms of prudence and transparency.

    “We demand a full and transparent inquiry into these shady waivers that have ripped the country of its revenues,” CAPPA Executive Director Akinbode Oluwafemi was quoted as saying. “More so, we are concerned about the benefits awarded to the tobacco industry under the Export Expansion Grant Scheme, and other untoward agreements which insult every Nigerian striving for a healthier and more equitable society’.’

  • BAT Nigeria Recognized as Top Exporter

    BAT Nigeria Recognized as Top Exporter

    Photo: eyegelb

    The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) recognized BAT Nigeria as a top contributor to non-oil exports to African markets, reports Business Day.

    NEPC issues the award based on the pre-shipment inspection reports by the non-oil exporters, according to Ezra Yakusak, executive director and CEO of NEPC.

    BAT Nigeria exports to 14 countries in West Africa and Central Africa, generating more than $500 million in revenue. BAT Nigeria is one of the country’s top five non-oil exporters each month and generates and repatriates over $110 million in foreign exchange annually. The company employs, directly and indirectly, more than 350,000 Nigerians.

    “The Nigerian Export Promotion Council’s recognition of the volume of our exports to African markets is a testament to BAT’s contribution to the region’s economic growth and development,” said Odiri Erewa-Meggison, external affairs director at BAT West and Central Africa. “We have been involved with Nigeria as well as the West and Central Africa region. We remain committed to advancing the non-oil sector in Nigeria as we create ‘A Better Tomorrow.’”

    Non-oil exports accounted for 11.32 percent of 2021 exports in Nigeria.

  • Nigeria Raises Tobacco Taxes

    Nigeria Raises Tobacco Taxes

    Photo: Richard Darko

    The Nigerian government has enacted a new tax regime this month, reports ICIR Nigeria

    On June 1, the ad valorem tax rate has increased to 30 percent from 10 percent. In addition, the government raised the excise rate on cigarettes to NGN84 ($0.20) from NGN58 per pack of 20 sticks. The excise tax is set to increase further to NGN94 per pack in 2023 and NGN104 per pack in 2024.

    Shisha tobacco, which is currently taxed at NGN3,000 per liter and NGN1,000 per kg will increase yearly by NGN500.

    “This pro-health tax is an effective public health control measure against behavioral risk factors as it can reduce demand and consumption of tobacco products,” said Minister of State for Health Olorunimbe Mamora.

    “It will also prompt tobacco users to switch spending their resources on tobacco products to healthy alternatives such as education, health and others.”

    In compliance with the National Tobacco Act (2015) and Regulations (2019), the government has also commenced screening and issuing operational licenses to qualifying tobacco businesses. 

    The new licensing guideline requires strict adherence to regulations requiring graphic health warnings on tobacco product packaging.

    According to Mamora, about 4.5 million Nigerians 15 years and older use tobacco products, and about 3.1 million are current smokers.