KEY POINTS
- Stanbic IBTC leads financing for CHI Limited deal.
- UAC deepens FMCG footprint with CHI acquisition.
- The partnership also signals renewed investor confidence.
UAC of Nigeria PLC got a great deal of money from Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC to buy CHI Limited, one of Nigeria’s biggest dairy and beverage companies.
The contract, which was done on October 3, 2025, represents a huge transformation for Nigeria’s market for consumer products. UAC currently owns all of CHI’s well-known brands and industrial property.
Stanbic IBTC is responsible for paying for the purchase of CHI Limited
Stanbic IBTC, as the Mandated Lead Arranger and Global Coordinator, came up with a multi-layered funding plan that was suitable for UAC’s growth goals.
The arrangement further included global markets and escrow services to manage forex exposure, supported by the Standard Bank Group’s regional network.
“This acquisition represents a transformative step for UAC as we expand our presence in the FMCG sector,” said Funke Ijaiya-Oladipo, UAC’s Group Finance Director. “It also positions us to build scale and deepen our reach across Nigeria’s growing food and beverage market.”
UAC strengthens presence in FMCG through CHI Limited
CHI Limited, maker of Hollandia, Chivita, and other household brands brings to the table a strong distribution footprint and advanced manufacturing systems. While industry watchers see the move as a calculated play by UAC to consolidate its leadership in dairy, juice, and snacks segments.
Furthermore, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Capital Limited, Oladele Sotubo, said the transaction demonstrates the bank’s commitment to delivering customized financial solutions that drive enterprise growth.
“This partnership reinforces our belief in Nigeria’s consumer story and our ability to help businesses like UAC scale efficiently,” Sotubo said.
The deal also underscores a broader trend among Nigerian conglomerates seeking vertical integration to boost efficiency and competitiveness in a challenging economy.
