Otunba Francis Meshioye, President of the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN), alongside Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General, led a distinguished delegation on a courtesy visit to the British American Tobacco (BAT) factory in Ibadan. This visit not only underscores BAT’s critical role as a dedicated member of MAN but also highlights the organisation’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration between the government and the manufacturing sector.
During the visit, Meshioye, the president of MAN, commended BAT for its high operational standards and commitment to excellence. “From the moment we arrived, BAT’s dedication to safety, quality, and innovation was evident. The company’s Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) induction process reflects its strong commitment to workplace safety and employee welfare. I encourage BAT to intensify its transition to reduced-risk products. MAN remains committed to supporting BAT’s initiatives and recognises its leadership in the sector,” Meshioye stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Ajayi-Kadir, MAN DG, applauded BAT for its resilience and steadfast commitment to the Nigerian manufacturing landscape, particularly in the face of a complex regulatory environment. “BAT stands out as a responsible and committed member of MAN, effectively addressing industry challenges. The government needs to support businesses that adhere to regulations, and BAT exemplifies this commitment. We deeply appreciate BAT’s substantial contributions to the manufacturing sector and encourage the company to continue its efforts,” he added.
The delegation observed BAT’s rigorous EHS induction protocols, reinforcing the company’s unwavering commitment to workplace safety. This visit coincided with BAT’s celebration of an impressive milestone: four years of zero lost-time incidents at the factory. This achievement highlights BAT’s robust safety culture and operational excellence, setting a benchmark within the industry.
The visiting delegation participated in a guided factory tour, donning protective gear to witness BAT’s advanced production processes firsthand. Hasnain Ishtiaq, BAT’s Operations Director, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainability and employee welfare. “At BAT, we are dedicated to building A Better Tomorrow™ by prioritising employee safety, minimising our environmental impact, and embracing sustainable practices. Our mission is to continue innovating and leading the industry while upholding responsible manufacturing standards,” he stated.
Ishtiaq highlighted BAT’s legacy since its founding in 1902, noting its presence in Nigeria since 1912 and the commissioning of the Ibadan facility in 2003. “With ₦500 billion in tax remittances (2018–2024), we have created over 350,000 jobs and strengthened Nigeria’s economy,” he said. He further emphasised that the Ibadan factory, with 16 production lines, generates up to $110 million in foreign exchange annually. “This visit and MAN’s endorsement reaffirms BAT’s role as a strategic manufacturing partner committed to innovation, safety, and sustainability,” he concluded.
