Guinness Nigeria Plc has announced an interim dividend of ₦2.00 per ordinary share for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, underscoring a strong earnings rebound and signalling renewed commitment to shareholder value amid improving financial performance.
The brewer posted a Profit After Tax (PAT) of N10.39 billion in Q1 FY2026, representing a 48 percent year-on-year increase from N7.03 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025. Earnings per share rose to N4.74, up from N3.21, reflecting enhanced profitability and improved operational efficiency.
The interim dividend translates to a total payout of N4.38 billion, based on an outstanding share count of 2.19 billion units. Shareholders on the register as of April 20, 2026, will qualify for the payout, which will be distributed from the company’s distributable profits in compliance with relevant provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020.
Topline performance remained steady, with revenue rising by 4 per cent to N122.77 billion. Operating profit stood resilient at N17.18 billion despite persistent margin pressures across the consumer goods sector, driven largely by inflationary headwinds and elevated input costs.
A key driver of the improved bottom line was a reduction in net finance costs, which declined to N1.43 billion from N7.72 billion in the prior year. The significant drop reflects improved balance sheet management and reduced exposure to high-cost borrowing, providing a boost to net earnings.
Fabian Ajogwu, chairman of the board, described the dividend as a reflection of both earnings quality and disciplined governance. He attributed the strong profit growth to sustained oversight, strategic clarity, and execution by management, adding that the board remains committed to balancing shareholder rewards with long-term business sustainability.
According to him, the dividend payout sends a clear message of confidence in the company’s resilience, operational strategy, and growth prospects in a challenging macroeconomic environment.
“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,” Ajogwu stated.
Also commenting, Girish Sharma, managing director and chief executive officer, emphasised that the company’s capital allocation framework remains anchored on financial discipline and long-term value creation. He noted that the improved performance reflects gains in operational efficiency and a measured approach to capital deployment, while maintaining balance sheet strength.
“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,” Sharma remarked.
Looking ahead, the company said it will continue to focus on strengthening its balance sheet, optimising costs, and delivering sustainable returns to shareholders. With earnings momentum building and finance costs under control, investors will be watching closely to see if the brewer can maintain its upward trajectory in subsequent quarters.
