Unilever Nigeria Plc is one of the oldest and most prominent consumer goods companies operating in Nigeria, with its origins tracing back to 1923 when Lever Brothers (West Africa) was established to trade and manufacture soaps.
Over the decades, the company has expanded its product lines into foods, detergents, and personal care items, and it has opened a few factories across Nigeria. It formally adopted the name Unilever Nigeria Plc in 2001.
In recent years, the company has faced economic challenges, currency fluctuations, inflation, and the cost of raw materials, but has also delivered strong financial performance and taken major strategic decisions to adapt.
In terms of strategic shifts, Unilever Nigeria recently made the decision to exit its Home Care and Skin Cleansing categories. As of late 2023, production and sales of certain brands like OMO, Sunlight, and Lux ceased; the corresponding factories have been leased to third parties. This move is part of a portfolio‐repositioning to focus resources on more profitable or strategic brands and simplify operations.
Unilever Nigeria Plc is a key player in the Nigerian fast‐moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. Its long history, diversified brand portfolio, and recent strategic reorientation demonstrate resilience and adaptability in a difficult macroeconomic environment. Its ability to sharpen focus on core profitable brands, localize supply chains, and grow profits suggests it is positioning itself for sustained performance in the years ahead.
