Guinness Nigeria Plc has opened the 2026 financial year with renewed financial momentum, reporting improved profitability and reinforcing its commitment to rewarding shareholders while strengthening its operating position in a demanding business climate.

Specifically,  sharing the news on its LinkedIn, the brewer delivered a profit after tax of ₦10.39 billion for the quarter ended 31 March 2026. Notably, this represents a 48 percent year on year increase.

At the same time, the company also expanded revenue to ₦122.77 billion, reflecting steady topline growth despite ongoing market pressures. Consequently, earnings per share improved further, while net finance costs declined significantly, signalling tighter cost discipline and more efficient capital management.

Importantly, the company did not treat the performance as a one off outcome. Instead, management linked the results directly to stronger execution across operations, improved financial control measures and continued resilience within its commercial strategy. As a result, the business entered the new year with clearer momentum and stronger balance sheet stability.

Following this performance, the Board approved an interim dividend of ₦2.00 per share for the quarter. Therefore, shareholders on record as at 20 April 2026 will receive a total payout of approximately ₦4.38 billion, scheduled for distribution on 24 April 2026.

Through this move, the company has once again signalled its intention to maintain consistent shareholder returns while sustaining operational progress.

Reacting to the announcement, Board Chairman Fabian Ajogwu described the dividend as a reflection of confidence in the organisation’s strategic direction and workforce capability.

According to him, the payout demonstrates trust in the company’s long term positioning as well as the strength of its execution framework in a changing economic environment.

Beyond the numbers, the results highlight a broader shift toward financial stability and disciplined growth. In particular, the reduction in finance related expenses strengthened profitability margins and supported improved earnings delivery across the business.

Equally important, the company continued to reinforce its operational resilience even as market conditions remained complex and cost sensitive.

Looking ahead, Guinness Nigeria indicated that it will continue to prioritise sustainable profitability, stronger balance sheet fundamentals and consistent value creation for investors.

At the same time, the brewer plans to deepen efficiency across its operations while maintaining focus on long term stakeholder confidence and market competitiveness.