Nigerian Breweries Stock Rally Hits 135% as Recovery Plan Restores Investor Confidence

Nigerian Breweries Plc says its sharp share price rally is a clear sign that investors are regaining confidence in the company after a difficult financial period. The brewer’s Managing Director/CEO, Hans Essaadi, linked the 135 per cent rise in its stock value over the past year to a deliberate recovery strategy and tough business decisions taken over the last 18 months.

Speaking in Lagos during the company’s 80th Pre-Annual General Meeting media briefing, Essaadi said the performance reflects resilience in the face of economic pressure and industry uncertainty. He explained that despite the challenges that forced some competitors to exit the market, Nigerian Breweries chose to stay, reinvest, and restructure its operations.

Financial results for the 2025 year showed a strong turnaround, with revenue rising by 35 per cent, driven by product innovation, premium offerings, and improved pricing strategies. Even more striking, operating profit jumped by over 190 per cent, while net profit rebounded by 168 per cent, reversing the previous year’s losses.

The company also significantly reduced its debt burden, cutting total borrowings from over N200 billion in 2024 to about N59 billion by the end of 2025. Finance Director Maria Karasewa said the firm has now reached a “cash-positive” position after eliminating its foreign currency exposure and improving cost management.

Looking ahead, Nigerian Breweries says it is focused on long-term expansion, including the full integration of Distell Wines and Spirits Nigeria and deeper investment in local sourcing. However, the company cautioned that its retained earnings remain negative due to past losses, even as it insists the recovery path is firmly on track and shareholder value is steadily improving.

source: punch