The Coca-Cola system in Nigeria contributed an estimated $1 billion in value-added economic activity and supported more than 160,000 jobs in 2024, according to an independent study by global consulting firm Steward Redqueen.
The findings were announced following the company’s 75th anniversary celebration in Nigeria, highlighting the economic impact of its operations and extensive network of suppliers, distributors and retailers.
The study assessed the direct, indirect and induced contributions of the Coca-Cola system by combining company operational data with third-party economic sources. It examined how the company’s activities support employment, household incomes and business opportunities across different sectors.
The Coca-Cola system comprises The Coca-Cola Company, its authorised bottler, Nigerian Bottling Company, and a network of local suppliers, business partners and retailers.
According to the report, the system supported nearly 3,000 direct jobs, while an additional 157,200 jobs were sustained through suppliers, business partners and customers. This translates to approximately 53 additional jobs supported across the economy for every direct job created by the system.
The study also found that the company sourced goods and services worth $601 million from Nigerian suppliers in 2024.
The local procurement supports several industries, including sugar production, packaging, transportation and marketing, while strengthening business activities within the country.
Beyond its economic contribution, the Coca-Cola system has continued to invest in sustainability initiatives, including the establishment of a packaging collection hub in Apapa, Lagos State.
The facility, which forms part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s plastic recycling infrastructure, has the capacity to process up to 13,000 metric tonnes of plastic bottles annually.
The initiative focuses on collecting, sorting and recycling polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics to reduce waste, create employment opportunities and support local communities.
The study also highlighted the company’s involvement in water sustainability through the Africa Water Stewardship Initiative, a nearly $25 million programme running through 2030.
The initiative is designed to address water-related challenges in local communities across 20 African markets, including Nigeria.
The findings underline the role of Coca-Cola’s local operations in supporting employment, domestic supply chains and sustainability efforts, while contributing to economic activity across the country.
