Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd., a member of the Coca-Cola Hellenic Bottling Group (CCHBC) and strategic bottling partner of The Coca-Cola Company in Nigeria, recently hosted the inaugural edition of its Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Safety Partnership Programme. The event took place at the NBC Ikeja Plant, bringing together key executives, logistics and material handling equipment (MHE) partners, as well as other critical stakeholders.
Building upon its “zero is possible” agenda, which envisions a workplace and environment free from accidents, the programme was designed as a platform for discussing best practices, sharing insights, and reinforcing the importance of safety in all its operations. A notable highlight during the event was the introduction of a recognition programme for partners, wherein those scoring 75% or higher out of a possible 100% were eligible for a prestigious award.
In his opening address, Goran Sladic, Managing Director of Nigerian Bottling Company underscored the importance of safety with the company’s logistics and supply chain operations. He commented:
“This unique programme is designed to support and encourage participation from our valued partners in our safety metrics and vision across all our sites. At NBC, we prioritise safety and take practical steps to demonstrate this commitment. It is my vision that we will all go beyond what is being discussed here to inculcate the drive to ensure that business is conducted with the highest safety standards.”
A total of 17 Material Handling Equipment (MHE) partners attended the event, including AG Leventis, Cobil, AY Hussaini, Bawal, Yau Adamu, Medessey, GTJ, Futuris, Stratagem, Hamidu Bako, Basul Maiyaki, Aminbaks, Maotech, Bah Engineering, Bisedge, Pebnic, and more.
Ismaila Yusuf, Country Logistics Director at NBC, articulated the programmes profound impact, affirming, “At NBC, we see our partners as integral to our shared success, not just as service providers but as sustainable businesses poised to thrive for generations to come”.
“Our commitment to safety, sustainability, and health sets us apart as we prioritise the well-being of stakeholders through unique safety initiatives that ensure our partners, and their employees are always protected. This partnership programme demonstrates our dedication to enhancing operations and fostering a culture of safety excellence,” he added.
The event featured a series of dynamic sessions, including workshops and compelling case studies spotlighting successful safety initiatives. Participants were also given the opportunity to engage with the company, to discuss NBC’s safety guidelines, and network with peers. The programme concluded with partners pledging their full support for the company’s vision.
As a responsible business, safety remains a core value across NBC’s operations. The company is committed to zero tolerance for failure to meet standards and has deployed maturity continuum measurement metrics. This approach extends to the company’s key partners and suppliers, as they are required to obtain certification to the standards of quality, environment, and health & safety. NBC continues to invest in programmes and initiatives that enhance a safe and secure working environment for all people across its value chain.
