Nigerian Breweries Plc has planted more than 340,000 indigenous trees and restored over 350 hectares of degraded forest in Ogun State as part of its environmental sustainability programme.
The company disclosed this during an engagement at the Olokemeji Forest, where it highlighted the progress of its Olokemeji Forest Reforestation Project. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Ogun State Ministry of Forestry and the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, IITA.
The project is part of Nigerian Breweries’ “Brew a Better World” sustainability agenda, which focuses on environmental protection and responsible business practices. According to the company, the reforestation programme is aimed at restoring degraded forest areas while supporting biodiversity conservation, climate resilience and watershed protection. The project has been running for five years and has involved the planting of indigenous tree species suited to the local environment.
Speaking during the engagement, the Corporate Affairs Director of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Uzodinma Odenigbo, said the company was committed to supporting environmental restoration in communities where it operates.
“At Nigerian Breweries, sustainability remains central to how we operate and create shared value. The restoration of over 350 hectares of degraded forest and the planting of more than 340,000 indigenous trees demonstrate what can be achieved through strategic partnerships. Beyond restoring ecosystems, we are investing in a healthier environment and creating opportunities that will benefit surrounding communities for generations to come,” he said.
The company said the restoration work would help improve the ability of the forest ecosystem to retain water while protecting native plant species and supporting wildlife. It also noted that the project could contribute to carbon absorption and help communities adapt to the effects of climate change. The reforestation effort is being carried out with the involvement of government agencies, agricultural experts and local communities.
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture has provided technical support for the project, while the Ogun State Government has supported the initiative through its Ministry of Forestry. The Ogun State Commissioner for Forestry, Engineer Oludotun Taiwo, commended the partnership between the state government, Nigerian Breweries and IITA.
He said collaboration among government institutions, businesses and development organisations was important for protecting forest resources and supporting sustainable development in the state. The Olokemeji Forest is one of the areas where restoration efforts are being undertaken to address the effects of forest degradation. The project also seeks to support surrounding communities by creating opportunities linked to environmental restoration and sustainable management of natural resources.
Nigerian Breweries said the programme reflects its wider commitment to reducing environmental impact and supporting sustainable development. The company has continued to place environmental sustainability among its corporate priorities, with initiatives covering water management, biodiversity conservation and responsible use of natural resources. The restoration of more than 350 hectares at Olokemeji represents a significant expansion of the company’s reforestation efforts in the area. The planting of indigenous trees is also expected to support the long term recovery of the forest while preserving species that are naturally suited to the ecosystem.
Through the continued partnership with the Ogun State Government, IITA and local stakeholders, the company said it would continue supporting efforts to protect the environment and strengthen the sustainability of surrounding communities.
