Guinness Nigeria records ₦10.39bn profit, announces ₦2 interim dividend

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Guinness Nigeria Plc has announced an interim dividend of ₦2.00 per ordinary share for the quarter ended March 31, 2026, following a strong financial performance that underscores a rebound in earnings and renewed focus on shareholder value.

The company posted a Profit After Tax of ₦10.39 billion in Q1 2026, representing a 48 per cent increase from ₦7.03 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2025. Earnings per share also rose to ₦4.74 from ₦3.21, reflecting improved profitability.

Revenue grew modestly by four per cent to ₦122.77 billion, while operating profit stood at ₦17.18 billion despite prevailing margin pressures. A significant drop in net finance costs, from ₦7.72 billion in Q1 2025 to ₦1.43 billion, further bolstered the company’s bottom line.

The interim dividend amounts to a total payout of about ₦4.38 billion, based on 2.19 billion outstanding shares, with April 20, 2026 set as the qualification date. The payment will be made from distributable profits in line with Sections 426–428 of the Companies and Allied Matters Act 2020.

The development marks a notable step in the company’s efforts to sustain consistent returns to shareholders after its strong performance in the 2025 financial year, while maintaining a balance between reinvestment and payouts.

Commenting on the results, the Board Chairman, Fabian Ajogwu, said: “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.”

Also speaking, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Girish Sharma, said: “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.”

Guinness Nigeria said it remains focused on sustaining profitability, strengthening its balance sheet and delivering long-term value to shareholders.