Guinness Nigeria recently held a ceremony in Ibadan to celebrate the graduation of 250 female entrepreneurs from their Plan W program. This brings the total number of women empowered by the initiative to 1,150 since its launch in 2019.
The company is dedicated to fostering economic opportunities for women across Nigeria. Their ambitious goal is to reach 1,400 women by the second quarter of 2024, and double that number by 2027. This expansion aims to create lasting change in communities throughout the country.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, Guinness Nigeria partners with Sightsavers Nigeria to ensure 10% of beneficiaries are People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs). This commitment ensures everyone has the chance to succeed through Plan W.
The ceremony highlighted strong community support for the initiative. Government officials, community leaders, and trade partners praised Guinness Nigeria’s leadership in women’s empowerment. They acknowledged the program’s positive impact on families, communities, and the national economy.
Why this matters
The success stories of Plan W graduates showcase its transformative power. These empowered women are not only supporting their families but also contributing to economic growth in their communities. Plan W operates on a “Triple Win” principle, benefiting individuals, families, and the nation as a whole.
What they’re saying
Adebayo Alli, Managing Director of Guinness Nigeria, highlighted the initiative’s broad significance during his speech at the event.
“In Nigeria, we have given 1,150 women more power since 2019. Our devotion is unwavering, our vision is audacious, and our goals are lofty. Our goal is to reach 1,400 women overall by the second quarter of 2024, with an additional 250 women in Lagos State. We want to treble this number by 2027 and increase the Guinness Plan W initiative’s effect,” he stated”.
“This expansion is not just about numbers; it’s about touching more lives, changing more hearts, and bringing about lasting change in communities throughout Nigeria.”In an effort to promote inclusivity, Guinness Nigeria and Sightsavers Nigeria have partnered to guarantee that 10% of Plan W beneficiaries are People with Disabilities (PLWDs).
Hon. Mrs. Toyin Balogun, Oyo State’s Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, graced the occasion and commended Guinness Nigeria for its pioneering work in women’s empowerment.
“This program embodies the concept of empowerment by offering routes to success, freedom, and confidence in addition to work. To the women who have taken advantage of this chance, I am inspired by your bravery and dedication. You are innovators, leaders, and agents of change”.
The Senior Special Advisor on SDGs to the Governor of Oyo State, Hon. Muftau Olatunde Ogunremi, also praised Guinness Nigeria Plc for the project saying;
“I saw Guinness Nigeria Plc’s latest water project in Ibarapa last year, and the company has a reputation for doing good in the community. In order to achieve greater scale and influence, I implore the management to carry out these admirable activities and to invite other organizations to do the same.
Bottom Line
Guinness Nigeria recognizes the importance of continued collaboration to drive positive change. They expressed gratitude to their partners, supporters, and the women who are the heart of Plan W. Their collective efforts are shaping the future of Nigeria, one empowered woman at a time.
