Guinness Nigeria Plc has celebrated its 75th anniversary with a colourful dinner event in Lagos, marking a major milestone for one of Nigeria’s most iconic beverage companies. The event, themed “A Bold Past, A Bright Future,” brought together industry leaders, government officials, trade partners, diplomats, traditional rulers, regulators, staff, and media professionals to honour the people and relationships that have shaped the company’s journey since 1949.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Guinness Nigeria, Girish Sharma, used the occasion to reflect on the company’s long-standing relationship with Nigerians. He described Guinness not just as a beverage brand but as a company that has grown to become part of the country’s cultural fabric.
“We are glad to be here with our critical stakeholders to celebrate Guinness at 75. We’re not in the business of selling beverages, but in the business of selling happiness. After going through stressful days, we are glad to brew the happiness that Nigerians return to and to have done this for 75 eventful years,” Sharma said.
He acknowledged that the company had faced various challenges over the decades but noted that the years ahead promised even greater progress. He credited employees, distributors, regulators, and loyal consumers for sustaining the Guinness legacy.
The Chairman of the Board of Guinness Nigeria, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), praised the brand’s values, resilience, and commitment to service. He noted that Guinness has built a reputation for caring for the communities where it operates, a trait reflected in the company’s social impact programmes. Ajogwu said the company’s commitment to inclusivity was also evident in the choice of entertainment for the night, including the performance by the Federal Nigerian School of the Blind.
“Guinness has always been a brand built on care — care for the communities we serve, where we are. From ready-to-drink innovations to heritage breweries, Guinness has earned its place in homes, celebrations, and in culture,” he said.
Representing the Lagos State Governor, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the State Government, commended Guinness Nigeria for becoming an enduring part of Lagos and Nigeria’s cultural history. She said the company’s impact extends far beyond the sale of its beverages, touching the lives of thousands of employees and supporting many communities across the country.
“The story of Guinness Nigeria has never been just about beer — it is, above all, a story about the people, about the thousands of Nigerians employed, the communities supported, and the shared identity built over generations,” she stated.
The Federal Government also sent a goodwill message. Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment, Senator John Owan Enoh, hailed Guinness Nigeria’s contributions to the country’s economy and social development. He described the 75th anniversary as a landmark achievement worth celebrating.
“Guinness Nigeria’s 75th anniversary celebration is a major milestone. We recognise and celebrate its unyielding commitment to sharing happiness in Nigeria these past 75 years, and we commit to making the environment more conducive for the business to endure much longer,” he said.
The anniversary dinner was marked by a blend of music, culture, and emotional moments. Guests enjoyed musical renditions from the Federal Nigerian School of the Blind, followed by upbeat performances from the Eminent Band. The highlight of the evening came when Afro-Juju music icon Sir Shina Peters delivered a thrilling performance that lit up the hall and brought guests to their feet.
As Guinness Nigeria looks ahead, the company reaffirmed its dedication to innovation, community service, and creating memorable experiences for consumers. The celebration underscored its commitment to “brewing boldness, joy, and great possibilities” for generations to come.
