Chairman of CAADES Group, Hon. Chima Desmond Anyaso, has announced the signing of a landmark trade partnership and distribution agreement with the owners of Ikoyi Chapmans, a move expected to introduce the beverage to the Nigerian market and expand its reach across Africa.
The agreement was formalised during a ceremony in Lagos, where Anyaso welcomed Mike and Garry Robinson, the owners of Ikoyi Chapmans, who returned to Nigeria more than four decades after leaving the country.
According to Anyaso, the partnership represents more than a commercial venture, describing it as the culmination of a long-standing friendship and a shared commitment to strengthening business ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
He recalled that the Robinson brothers grew up in Nigeria before relocating abroad over 40 years ago, taking with them fond memories of Chapman, a locally popular non-alcoholic drink that became a cherished symbol of their childhood.
Those memories, he said, inspired the creation of Ikoyi Chapmans and ultimately laid the foundation for the newly signed partnership.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Anyaso said the agreement would facilitate the introduction of Ikoyi Chapmans into the Nigerian market, with plans to expand distribution to other African countries in the coming years.
He expressed confidence that the collaboration would stimulate investment in the beverage sector, create business opportunities and strengthen commercial relationships across the continent.
“This is more than the launch of a beverage. It is the beginning of a journey that celebrates history, honours friendship, bridges cultures and creates a lasting legacy for generations to come,” Anyaso said.
As part of the ceremony, the CAADES Group chairman presented the Robinson brothers with the Nigerian Coat of Arms as a symbolic reminder of the country they once called home.
The visitors were also honoured with traditional Igbo gifts, including Isi Agu attire, customised crested hand fans bearing their names, traditional beads and the iconic red cap, in celebration of the cultural ties underpinning the partnership.
Anyaso also acknowledged the contributions of Dr. Efosa Ogbeide, whom he described as a strategic partner in bringing the agreement to fruition, and commended all those who supported the initiative.
He expressed optimism that the partnership would contribute to the growth of Africa’s beverage industry through innovation, investment and deeper cross-border commercial collaboration.
The agreement marks another strategic business milestone for CAADES Group as it expands its footprint in consumer goods distribution while promoting international partnerships aimed at unlocking opportunities within Nigeria and the wider African market.
