Lagos State is set to spearhead the implementation of a new industrial policy aimed at fostering a more conducive environment for business growth, as part of its broader strategy to position Lagos as a globally competitive 21st-century economy. The state’s Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Mrs. Folashade Kaosarat Bada Ambrose, made this announcement during the Cadbury Nigeria Plc @60 celebration held in Lagos.
Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mrs. Ambrose emphasized that the Ministry of Commerce is actively leading efforts to roll out the policy, which focuses on critical areas such as infrastructure development, investment incentives, industrial clustering, and public-private partnerships. She expressed optimism about collaborating with Cadbury Nigeria and other stakeholders to ensure the policy translates into tangible benefits, including increased productivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity.
On behalf of Governor Sanwo-Olu, the Commissioner commended Cadbury Nigeria for its ongoing investments and operations within Lagos, highlighting the company’s vital role in job creation, innovation, and community development. She also acknowledged Cadbury’s cultural initiative, WAZOBIA DAY, which celebrates Nigeria’s rich diversity among over 200 million people and more than 250 ethnic groups. The event underscores Cadbury Nigeria’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and vibrant workplace.
Earlier, Cadbury Nigeria’s Managing Director, Mrs. Oyeyimika Adeboye, attributed the company’s milestone of turning 60 in 2025 to resilience and focus despite economic challenges. She highlighted Mondelez International’s global presence and its plans to introduce new products like Cadbury Dairy Milk and biscuits into the Nigerian market, further strengthening Cadbury’s footprint across West Africa.
Mrs. Adeboye explained that WAZOBIA DAY, initially a Nigerian celebration, expanded to include colleagues from Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire, symbolizing unity in diversity within the company’s regional operations. She noted the significance of this year’s celebration in marking both Nigeria’s cultural richness and Cadbury Nigeria’s longstanding legacy.
Cadbury Nigeria’s Human Resources Director, Dr. Wole Odubayo, emphasized the company’s dedication to employee engagement and work-life balance, viewing its staff as a core asset. Similarly, Manufacturing Director Mr. Owen Akinwande praised the passion and commitment of the employees, which has helped the company maintain its strong market position despite operational challenges.
