Nigeria: Guinness Nigeria CEO raises concerns over economic uncertainty facing manufacturers

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Guinness Nigeria PLC, Girish Sharma, has expressed concern over the frequent economic developments that significantly affect the various product categories in which the company operates, Marketing Edge reported on October 29.

He made this known during an interview with Channels Television, shared on its LinkedIn and was monitored by Marketing Edge, where he discussed the economic realities confronting manufacturers and their implications for business operations.

During the interview, Sharma highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Nigeria’s economic environment, noting that news about developments with significant effects on the markets in which Guinness Nigeria operates often raises concerns for the company’s leadership.

His remarks came amid discussions about the company’s financial performance, which recorded a more than 53 per cent increase in profit after tax, supported largely by a 62 per cent reduction in finance expenses, while revenue grew by 20 per cent.

Furthermore, the conversation examined broader challenges facing the manufacturing sector, including the rising cost of living and its impact on consumer spending, difficulties in sourcing raw materials locally from farmers, and the private sector’s responsibility to create sustainable employment opportunities.

Sharma’s comments underscored the importance of economic stability and predictability to manufacturers, particularly as businesses navigate changing market conditions, evolving consumer behaviour and operational pressures in Nigeria.

30 October, 2026