The meeting brought together senior executives from the company and regulatory officials to deepen collaboration around quality assurance, responsible business conduct, and the broader goal of protecting Nigerian consumers from substandard and fake products.
At the centre of the discussions was a shared concern: strengthening systems that safeguard public health while ensuring legitimate businesses operate in a fair and well-regulated environment.
“We Value Our Relationship With NAFDAC” — Pernod Ricard
Speaking during the visit, Operations Director at Pernod Ricard Nigeria, Bode Omosagba, emphasized the importance of regulatory collaboration in sustaining trust within the market.
“As a responsible organisation, we recognise the critical role NAFDAC plays in protecting consumers and fostering an enabling environment for business growth. We value our relationship with the Agency and remain committed to supporting its mandate,” he said.
His remarks underscored the company’s alignment with regulatory standards, particularly in an industry where counterfeit alcoholic beverages remain a persistent concern.
Sustainability and Responsible Consumption Initiatives
Beyond regulatory cooperation, Pernod Ricard Nigeria also used the engagement to highlight its sustainability and social responsibility programmes.
Among them is the “Glass to Life” campaign, which promotes the collection and recycling of used bottles as part of a broader environmental protection strategy. The initiative is aimed at reducing waste while encouraging circular packaging practices within the beverage industry.
The company also referenced its global responsible drinking campaign, “Drink More Water,” which encourages moderation and hydration as part of healthier alcohol consumption habits.
These initiatives form part of Pernod Ricard’s wider corporate strategy focused on sustainability, responsible hosting, and environmental stewardship.
Portfolio of Premium Global and Local Brands
Pernod Ricard Nigeria continues to maintain a strong presence in the premium spirits market with a diverse portfolio that includes both locally produced and internationally recognised brands.
These include Imperial Blue, produced locally, alongside global labels such as Martell Cognac, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Absolut Vodka, The Glenlivet Scotch whisky, and Chivas Regal.
The company maintains that adherence to regulatory standards is central to sustaining consumer trust across its product categories.
NAFDAC Reaffirms Regulatory Commitment
Responding on behalf of the agency, Dr. Olakunle Olaniran, Director of the Port Inspection Directorate at NAFDAC, commended Pernod Ricard Nigeria for its compliance efforts and engagement with regulators.
He reiterated the agency’s dual mandate of protecting public health while supporting legitimate trade and investment in Nigeria.
According to him, sustained collaboration between regulators and industry stakeholders is essential in the ongoing battle against counterfeit products, which continue to threaten both consumer safety and market stability.
He also encouraged greater investment in local production and technology transfer, noting that such steps are vital for Nigeria’s industrial growth and long-term economic development.
Industry Collaboration as a Tool Against Counterfeiting
The meeting reinforced a broader industry reality: combating counterfeit goods requires more than enforcement alone. It demands active participation from manufacturers, distributors, and regulators working in sync.
For companies like Pernod Ricard Nigeria, this means strengthening traceability systems, improving compliance culture, and supporting national regulatory frameworks that protect consumers and legitimate businesses alike.
A Shared Vision for a Safer Market
As discussions concluded, both parties reaffirmed their shared goal of building a safer, more transparent marketplace in Nigeria—one where consumers can trust the authenticity and quality of what they purchase.
For Pernod Ricard Nigeria, the engagement with NAFDAC signals not just regulatory compliance, but a broader commitment to responsible business practices, sustainability, and long-term industry development.