Guinness Nigeria Plc has informed the Nigerian Exchange Limited and the investing public of the retirement of Mr. Babatunde Savage from the Board of Guinness Nigeria with effect from 30th June, 2021.
In his letter to the Board in compliance with applicable Corporate Governance regulations, Mr. Savage expressed his pleasure at the opportunity to have been a part of the wonderful Guinness story over the last four (4) decades. He also thanked the Board of Guinness Nigeria and Diageo UK for the opportunity to have served in many capacities, first as an employee who held various strategic senior roles, then as an Executive Director and later the Chairman of the Board, a role he has held for nearly twelve eventful and progressive years. He also noted his unwavering support for Guinness Nigeria, Diageo, and its iconic brands. “After almost 40 amazing years, my journey with Guinness Nigeria is coming to an end. Guinness Nigeria is and will always be family to me”, he said.
The Vice-Chairman of the Board and President, Diageo Africa, Mr. John O’Keeffe, thanked Mr. Savage profoundly on behalf of the Board of Diageo Plc., the parent company of Guinness Nigeria, for his invaluable contributions to the success of the Guinness Nigeria over the last forty years. The company is also pleased to announce arrangements for former Nigerian Minister of Communication Technology and serving Guinness Nigeria Board member, Dr. Omobola Johnson to be appointed and assume the role of Board Chairman with effect from 1st July 2021.
Dr. Johnson who is currently a serving member of the Guinness Nigeria Board has over 30 years of experience from both the private and public sectors of the Nigerian economy. Commenting on her appointment, the former pioneer Minister of Communication Technology for Nigeria, and former Country Managing Director for Accenture, said “Guinness Nigeria is an excellent company with tremendous value creation opportunities, and I believe the refreshed Board and the Management Team remain committed to achieving outstanding performance and maximizing shareholder value.”