Unilever Nigeria Plc has declared an interim dividend of N11.5bn for the first half of 2026.
The consumer goods manufacturer announced in its unaudited financial results for the six months ended June 30, 2026, that its Board approved an interim dividend of N2.00 per 50 kobo ordinary share, subject to applicable withholding tax.
The dividend will be paid to shareholders whose names appear on the Register of Members at the close of business on July 31, 2026.
The dividend declaration followed a robust financial performance, with the company reporting 22 per cent growth in revenue to N119.9bn, up from N98.1bn recorded in the corresponding period of 2025.
Gross profit rose by 30 per cent to N54.7bn, compared with N42.1bn in the first half of last year, reflecting improved operational efficiency and stronger margins.
Net profit also increased to ₦15.6 billion, from N14.4bn posted in the same period of 2025.
Commenting on the results, the Managing Director of Unilever Nigeria, Tobi Adeniyi, said the company delivered a resilient first-half performance despite operating in a difficult business environment characterized by geopolitical volatility, escalating production costs and weaker consumer purchasing power.
According to him, the company’s growth was driven by disciplined execution, stronger distribution capabilities, impactful product innovation and an unwavering focus on meeting consumer needs across its portfolio.
“We delivered a strong first half in a challenging operating environment. Despite these headwinds, we remained focused on serving consumers better, strengthening our route-to-market execution, driving impactful innovations and maintaining operational discipline,” Adeniyi said.
He noted that the company’s 22 per cent revenue growth, 30 per cent increase in gross profit, and improvement in gross margin to 45.6 per cent underscore the strength of its brands and the effectiveness of its commercial strategy.
Adeniyi added that the performance reinforces Unilever Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to the Nigerian market, where the company has operated for more than a century.
He said the company would continue investing in local manufacturing, talent development and value creation across its operations, expressing confidence in Nigeria’s long-term growth prospects despite current macroeconomic challenges.
“The growth recorded across our portfolio reflects our focus on providing Nigerian consumers with brands that are relevant, innovative and superior. Beyond the financial performance, it demonstrates our confidence in the long-term potential of Nigeria. We remain committed to investing responsibly in our operations, brands and people while creating sustainable value for all stakeholders,” he said.
Looking ahead, Adeniyi said Unilever Nigeria will continue to prioritize sustainable profitable growth, strengthen consumer engagement and build a future-ready business capable of delivering long-term returns to shareholders while creating value across its stakeholder ecosystem.
(The Whistler)