Guinness Nigeria Plc has announced an interim dividend of ₦2.00 per ordinary share for the first quarter of 2026, reflecting improved financial performance and a renewed focus on rewarding shareholders.
The company’s results for the period ending March 31, 2026, show a strong recovery in earnings. Profit After Tax rose significantly to ₦10.39 billion, representing a 48 percent increase compared to ₦7.03 billion recorded in the same period of 2025. This growth highlights the company’s ability to improve profitability despite economic pressures.
Revenue also increased modestly by 4 percent to ₦122.77 billion, indicating steady business expansion. While operating profit stood at ₦17.18 billion, the company faced some margin challenges. However, a major improvement came from reduced finance costs, which dropped sharply from ₦7.72 billion in the previous year to ₦1.43 billion. This reduction played a key role in boosting overall profit.
Earnings per share climbed to ₦4.74, up from ₦3.21, further reflecting the company’s improved financial health. The declared interim dividend will result in a total payout of about ₦4.38 billion to shareholders, based on the company’s outstanding shares. The qualification date for the dividend is set for April 20, 2026.
The dividend will be paid from distributable profits, in line with the provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020. This move signals the company’s commitment to maintaining a balance between reinvesting in the business and delivering returns to investors.
Commenting on the development, the Board Chairman, Prof. Fabian Ajogwu, stated: “The Board is pleased to declare this interim dividend, which reflects both the quality of earnings achieved in Q1 FY2026 and our commitment to disciplined capital stewardship. A 48% growth in Profit After Tax is not accidental, it is the result of sustained governance oversight, strategic clarity, and the dedication of our management team and employees. As a Board, we remain firmly committed to rewarding our shareholders while ensuring that Guinness Nigeria is positioned for sustainable, long-term growth. This dividend is a statement of confidence in our business, our people, and the resilience of our strategy.”
Also speaking, the Managing Director, Girish Sharma, said: “Our capital allocation decisions remain grounded in disciplined execution, financial prudence and a clear focus on long-term value creation. The interim dividend reflects the outcome of improved operational efficiency and a measured approach to capital deployment, while maintaining balance sheet strength and performance stability.”
Overall, the announcement highlights a positive start to the 2026 financial year for Guinness Nigeria. The company’s improved earnings, cost management, and steady revenue growth demonstrate resilience and effective strategy execution. By declaring this dividend, the firm reinforces its commitment to delivering consistent value to shareholders while positioning itself for sustained long term growth.
