BATN water stewardship initiative brings stakeholders together to address Nigeria’s water access and sustainability through collaboration and innovation

BATN water stewardship efforts have taken a significant leap forward as British American Tobacco Nigeria led a multi-stakeholder workshop aimed at advancing sustainable water practices across the country.

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Held at the company’s Ibadan factory, the event gathered key players from government, industry, and local communities to discuss solutions for Nigeria’s escalating water challenges.

Themed “Collaborating for Sustainable Water Stewardship”, the workshop highlighted the importance of shared responsibility in ensuring equitable access to clean water.

Hasnain Ishtiaq, Operations Director for BAT West and Central Africa, emphasized the company’s commitment to collective progress.

“This workshop is a testament to our belief that collaboration is the only path to a truly sustainable future,” he stated.

Dr. Adesuyi Adeola, Sustainability Operations Manager for the region, presented BATN’s progress in aligning with the Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) Standard.

He revealed that the company had recycled more than 14,000 cubic metres of water in 2024 using its advanced wastewater treatment plant with a 50 m³ capacity.

“Our priority is clear: reduce water withdrawals, increase recycling, and be transparent in how we manage resources,” said Adeola.

He reaffirmed BATN’s data-driven approach to improving water efficiency while supporting community resilience.

The workshop featured active participation from the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, and National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).

Director of Water Resources, Bode Olugbemiga, confirmed the government’s readiness to collaborate with the private sector.

“We are committed to repairing infrastructure and welcoming partnerships that accelerate access to clean water,” she noted.

Stakeholders at the event addressed pressing concerns including infrastructure gaps, aging water systems, and the need for local-level solutions.

Dialogue sessions encouraged participants to become ambassadors of sustainable water stewardship in their respective sectors and communities.

The BATN initiative aligns with broader environmental goals and sustainability frameworks, showing how private sector leadership can play a transformative role in resource conservation.

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As Nigeria faces increasing demand and stress on its water systems, BATN’s approach highlights how corporate accountability and multi-sector dialogue can forge pathways toward long-term water security.