Champion Breweries Plc has successfully issued its maiden ₦30 billion five-year fixed-rate senior unsecured bond at a coupon of 19.50 percent, under its ₦45 billion bond issuance programme, marking a first for Nigeria’s breweries sub-sector.
The transaction, facilitated by Rand Merchant Bank Nigeria Limited (RMB Nigeria) as Lead Issuing House and Bookrunner, underscores growing confidence in the company’s governance framework, business resilience, and long-term growth strategy.
Commenting on the milestone, Chairman of Champion Breweries Plc, Mr. Imo-Abasi Jacob, said, “The successful Bond Issuance is more than a financing milestone, it is a statement of intent. By accessing the debt capital markets, we have demonstrated the strength of our governance, the resilience of our business model, and the confidence investors place in our long-term vision.” He added that the transaction would catalyse transformation by strengthening the company’s capital base and enabling it to compete at scale within the sub-sector.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Inalegwu Adoga, noted that the successful issuance reflects investor confidence in Champion Breweries’ strategic direction. “With this capital, we are focused on driving operational efficiency and unlocking opportunities that will sustain growth and reinforce our leadership in Nigeria’s beverage market,” he said.
Rand Merchant Bank’s Role
On RMB Nigeria’s role, Executive Director and Head of Investment Banking, Broader Africa, Mr. Chidi Iwuchukwu, described the deal as a significant milestone for both the company and Nigeria’s debt capital markets. “Rand Merchant Bank is proud to have partnered with Champion Breweries Plc as Lead Issuing House and Bookrunner… to deliver seamless execution. This success reinforces our commitment to delivering holistic solutions that help clients achieve strategic objectives and set new benchmarks,” he said.
Chief Executive Officer of RMB Nigeria, Mr. Bayo Ajayi, added that the transaction highlights the increasing depth and sophistication of Nigeria’s debt capital markets. “At RMB Nigeria, we remain committed to structuring solutions that meet our clients’ funding needs while contributing to the development of Nigeria’s capital markets. Champion Breweries’ successful issuance sets a strong precedent for future bond issuances from players in the breweries sub-sector,” he stated.
The landmark bond issuance positions Champion Breweries to diversify its funding sources, strengthen its balance sheet, and pursue sustainable growth, while reinforcing RMB Nigeria’s role in deepening Nigeria’s corporate debt market.