International Breweries Plc, a proud member of AB-InBev, has announced receiving multiple awards at the recently held SERAS Africa Sustainability / CSR Awards.
According to a statement, the company came tops among other contenders to clinch the Best Company in Poverty Reduction, Best in Climate Action and 2nd Runner up, Most Responsible Organisation in Africa.
The recognition reflects IBPLC’s strong commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility through impactful initiatives targeted at ensuring the company’s operations contribute positively within its operational environment and across the country.
Receiving the awards on behalf of the company, the Corporate Affairs and Regulatory Director of IBPLC, Temitope Oguntokun, said, “The awards underscore years of commitment to a sustainable environment and the company’s revolutionary initiatives, such as the flagship Kickstart Initiative, the Hero Apprenticeship System, the introduction of CNG-Powered Trucks within its fleet, energy transition to a CNG-powered Independent Power Project, Water Stewardship, and the Circular Economy, among others, are testaments to its commitment in fostering social and environmental sustainability.”
“We are deeply honoured to receive these awards, which affirm our commitment to creating a future with more cheers for our communities and our planet. International Breweries’ ambitious plan is to shape a brighter future by revolutionising the entire value chain with our sustainability goals. We are tackling this challenge through four strategic pillars: smart agriculture, water stewardship, circular packaging, and climate action,” Oguntokun stated.
Oguntokun added that these pillars are carefully aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring efforts contribute to a larger, global impact.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to drive meaningful changes across our value chain. These achievements would not have been possible without the dedication of our team and the support of our partners,” she noted.
According to the statement, IBPLC, being the best in poverty reduction, has been at the forefront of efforts to reduce poverty through its innovative Kickstart Initiative. The initiative supports young entrepreneurs through business training, mentorship, and the provision of grants to kickstart prospective business concepts or upscale existing businesses. Since its inception, over N600m investment has been made to impact businesses across 30 states in Nigeria with over 2,000 direct beneficiaries.
Also, it noted that the “Best in Climate Action” award highlights IBPLC’s leadership in environmental stewardship. From implementing renewable energy projects to reducing carbon emissions across its operations, the company’s proactive approach addresses pressing climate challenges while promoting sustainability.
It added that initiatives such as the CNG-powered trucks, transition to CNG-powered IPP, and investment in solar energy that powers a section of its operation would go a long way in positioning the company as a leader in championing environmental sustainability.
According to the organisers of the SERAS Awards, IBPLC’s emergence as the 2nd Runner-Up for Most Responsible Organisation in Africa is in recognition of the company’s ethical practices, transparency, and dedication to making a positive societal impact.
