Nigerian Breweries plc has said it is ready to throw its weight behind the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) in the bid to make sure the Super Eagles of Nigeria have a befitting outing at the 2018 FIFA world Cup hosting in Russia.
The brew company in a statement made available confirmed it will sign a sponsorship and brand deal with NFF by next week Friday to kick start its commitment as country prepares for the June world football fiesta.
Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Jordi Borrut Bel, Nigerian Breweries plc, explained that the company will be going into the deal with two out of its premium brands -Star Lager and Amstel Malta.
He said the company and NFF has agreed that Star Lager, should be the Official Alcoholic Drink of the Super Eagles while Amstel Malta, the Official Malt Drink of the NFF and the National Teams, including Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup –bound Super Eagles.
The two brands will be providing support to players and coaching crews, as well as premium satisfaction to over 180 million passionate fans that will be cheering the Super Eagles and other National Teams before, during and after their international matches.
He added that, “We are indeed delighted about this partnership between Nigerian Breweries plc and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This relationship provides us an opportunity to celebrate the true Nigerian spirit that is fuelled by patriotism, passion and desire for victory, through the platform of Football.”
“We are entering this partnership with a focus on a long-term commitment,” Marketing Director, Nigerian Breweries plc, Mr. Franco Maria Maggi, stated has he explained that “It is an honour for us to start working closely together with the Nigeria Football Federation.
“Star Lager has always been a strong supporter of Nigerian Football and its fans, while Amstel Malta is well known for inspiring people to be the best they can be. We are dedicated to the growth of Nigerian Football at all levels.
“Our organization is entering this partnership with a focus on a long-term commitment that will support Nigerian Football to reach its full potential. For this, we are thrilled to offer our expertise developed over time leveraging other football assets, with Star Lager, Amstel Malta and Heineken®.”
In relation to the partnership, a number of activities have been lined up, starting with an Official Contracts Exchange Ceremony holding on Friday, 9th February 2018, in Lagos.
In the light of the agreement, NFF President, Amaju Pinnick described the brewing company as “an organization that has been a torch –bearer of excellence and corporate social responsibility for the several decades it has operated in Nigeria.”
He said the Federation was “excited and fulfilled” to seal the agreements with Nigerian Breweries PLC, stating that the glasshouse would abide by every letter of the contract.
Succinct to note that Nigerian Breweries joined a growing list of sponsors like Coca-Cola, Wapic Insurance, Payporte, who have gone into deals with the NFF since the Super Eagles qualified for the 2018 World Cup.
Founded in November 1946, Nigerian Breweries Plc is the pioneer and largest brewing company in Nigeria, serving both Nigerian and West African markets.