BAT Marketing Receives CBW-Africa Award for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

Dike Onwuamaeze

The BAT Marketing Nigeria has been recognised with a prestigious award from Commonwealth Business Women Africa (CBW-Africa) at the 2025 CBW-Africa Summit, which took place at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos.

The Head of Business Communication and Sustainability, BAT West and Central Africa, Ms. Halimat Shuaibu, accepted the award on behalf of the company and highlighted BAT Marketing Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in its operations and workplace culture.

This award served as recognition of BAT Marketing Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to cultivate an inclusive environment where women and underrepresented groups can pursue and achieve leadership positions.

Shuaibu said that by prioritizing DEI in its corporate ethos, BAT Marketing Nigeria has not only enhanced its internal culture but also positions itself as a benchmark for other organisations striving to foster equitable work environments across the industry.

Commenting on the award, the Head, Human Resources and Inclusion, BAT West and Central Africa, Ms. Buky Olukoga, emphasised the importance of DEI in the company’s strategy:

“This award from Commonwealth Business Women Africa showcases our commitment to inclusivity. At BAT, our success hinges on empowering our diverse team, fueling our drive for equity and sustainable development.”

Olukoga said that BAT is making significant strides toward achieving gender parity in leadership and has set for itself an ambitious target to reach 40 per cent female representation in senior roles in 2025.

“Currently we are at 36 per cent of women in leadership roles demonstrating unwavering commitment to gender equity and empowerment.

“Furthermore, BAT actively engages in various programs and initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of mentorship and professional development among women.

“Through partnerships with various organisations, BAT has created platforms for its female executives to mentor aspiring leaders, share insights, and empower the next generation of women in business,” she said.

Looking ahead, Olukoga said that BAT is poised to lead by example in the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the corporate sphere.

“By continuing to implement innovative strategies that support the professional growth of all employees, especially women and underrepresented groups, BAT is not only paving the way for a more equitable workforce but is also contributing to the sustainable development goals that uplift the broader community.

“The recognition from CBW-Africa is an affirmation of BAT Marketing Nigeria’s role as a trailblazer in DEI, inspiring others to embrace inclusivity as a catalyst for business success and social progress,” she said.

The CBW-Africa promotes women’s entrepreneurship and leadership across Africa. As part of the Commonwealth Business Women Network, it offers mentorship, training, and resources while advocating for gender equality in business. Through initiatives like the CBW-Africa Summit, it fosters collaboration among leaders to create an empowering environment for women.