Guinness Nigeria celebrates 75 years of legacy, innovation, growth
By Yunus Yusuf
Guinness Nigeria Plc, the nation’s leading total beverage alcohol company, proudly celebrates 75 years of impactful presence — a milestone marking a legacy of heritage, innovation, and deep-rooted connection to the Nigerian people.
Founded in 1950 and launching its first brewery in Lagos in 1962 — the first Guinness brewery outside Ireland and the UK — Guinness Nigeria has grown into more than just a company.
It is a national treasure, woven into the very fabric of Nigerian culture and life. Through decades, its iconic brands and enduring values have symbolized resilience, quality, and collective celebration.
With a rich portfolio that includes Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Guinness Smooth, Malta Guinness, Orijin, Smirnoff, Dubic Malt, and Gordon’s, the company has remained a consistent part of family moments, social gatherings, and national milestones.
“This milestone isn’t just about how far we’ve come — it’s a tribute to the people who built this legacy with us,” said Girish Sharma, Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria Plc.
“From farmers and distributors to employees and consumers, this company is shaped by countless hands and hearts.
“As we look ahead, we are focused on Building for More — more connection, more purpose, and greater impact. Our mission remains to celebrate life every day, everywhere — and we enter the next 75 years with that same bold spirit.”
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Guinness Nigeria is reinforcing its legacy of social impact. Through its long-standing Guinness Eye Centres in Lagos and Onitsha, the company is sponsoring free eye surgeries, restoring vision and improving lives.
This is in continuation of its broad commitment to healthcare, access to clean water, education, and community development.
Guinness Nigeria’s impact is reflected in programmes like Water of Life, which has delivered clean drinking water to over 500,000 Nigerians; Plan W, which has empowered more than 1,000 women with entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills; and the Guinness Nigeria Undergraduate Scholarship Scheme, supporting students nationwide.
Its over 20-year partnership with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has promoted responsible drinking and road safety awareness.
Notably, as early as the 1980s, Guinness Nigeria pioneered the use of locally sourced sorghum in production — a move that supported local farmers and set a precedent for local sourcing in the industry.
To mark the 75th anniversary, Guinness Nigeria is launching a range of commemorative activities including a 75th anniversary documentary, limited-edition bottles, a nationwide consumer promotion, and staff celebrations such as interdepartmental football matches and parties across its Lagos, Benin, and field offices.
This celebration also ushers in a new era for Guinness Nigeria, following a recent change in majority shareholding.
The transition brings opportunities for greater local agility, deeper investment in supply chains, and accelerated innovation — all while maintaining Guinness Nigeria’s status as a proudly Nigerian company with global standards.
“Guinness Nigeria is stronger, more agile, and more ambitious than ever,” Sharma concluded.
“We’re not just celebrating a legacy — we’re building the future.
“This is a company founded on trust, quality, and purpose. And we’re only just getting started.”
