On 20th August 2025, I had the honour of contributing a Goodwill Statement at the launch of a landmark partnership between PepsiCo and DP World in Nigeria. This collaboration between two global industry leaders, one in logistics and the other in consumer goods, marks a significant step forward in strengthening value chains, advancing local production, and opening up new avenues for growth both within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.

The initiative reflects a powerful commitment to aligning enterprise with social good, demonstrating that private sector investment can go hand in hand with community empowerment and the creation of dignified employment. With a focus on sustainable development and inclusive progress, the partnership embodies a vision where commercial success supports societal wellbeing.

I extend sincere appreciation to Mr Mohammed Akoojee, CEO and Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, DP World, and Mr Felix Enwemadu, General Manager, PepsiCo Foods Nigeria, for their forward-thinking leadership. Their efforts will directly benefit over 6,500 people in Lagos State, providing access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and will further extend hygiene awareness campaigns to 100,000 residents—a truly impactful and commendable scale.

This partnership also builds on ongoing global advocacy. At COP28, I joined executives from DP World and WaterAid to highlight the critical need for climate-resilient health, water, and nutrition systems as essential pillars of sustainable development. It is deeply encouraging to see these priorities now translated into tangible, state-level action here in Nigeria.

The joint DP World–PepsiCo–WaterAid initiative brings safe water, sanitation, and hygiene to underserved communities while also empowering women and fostering resilience, core values championed by the Wellbeing Foundation Africa. This represents not only continuity in shared purpose, but a deepening of our collective resolve to build healthier, more equitable futures.

As we look ahead, I welcome further collaboration with partners who place purpose at the core of progress. By blending global expertise with a genuine commitment to local impact, we can ensure that investment drives not just industrial growth, but daily wellbeing for families and communities across Nigeria and the wider region.