Berger Paints to set up ultra-modern plant

Berger Paints Nigeria plc has said it is in the final phase of setting up an ultra-modern factory that will be first of its kind in West Africa.

The company has also announced the appointment of Peter Bababunmi Folikwe as its new managing director, who is expected to drive growth.

The expansion plan of the company was disclosed by Oladimeji Alo, chairman, board of directors, Berger Paints Nigeria plc, while commenting on the appointment of Folikwe.

“This is an incredibly exciting time at Berger Paints as we go into the final phase of the setting up of our modern factory, which will be the first of its kind in West Africa,” Alo said.

“After a rigorous selection process, Peter emerged as the candidate most suitable to lead Berger Paints Nigeria plc into the future. He brings with him a great depth of knowledge and experience in manufacturing, telecommunications and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) environments. I am delighted, on behalf of the board, to welcome Peter to the Berger Paints family,” he said.

Folikwe brings on board over 24 years of experience in marketing, sales/distribution and general management, having worked in a number of highly rated companies in Nigeria across a number of sectors in varied capacities.

“I am humbled by the opportunity to build on the legacy Berger Paints has created over the years. Berger Paints continues to be a market leader. By the grace of God, I am looking forward to providing visionary leadership to the management team with the objective of delivering sustainable value to all the company’s stakeholders,” Folikwe said.

The new MD holds a Bachelor of Science (Hons) degree in marketing from the University of Nigeria Nsukka and Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Benin.

He was general manager, sales and distribution for UAC Foods Limited – a joint venture between UAC of Nigeria and Tiger Brands SA, where he reorganised the regional sales/distribution structure and route to market for competitive edge in its snacks, beverage and ice-cream product categories.

Prior to that, he had been the sales and marketing director at Vitafoam Nigeria plc and was responsible for re-branding the erstwhile Vitafoam brand with a new pay-off “the fine art of living.”

ODINAKA ANUDU