The Senior Director of Public Affairs, Communications & Sustainability at Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited, Nwamaka Onyemelukwe has emerged winner of the Leadership Award in Sustainability at the recently held awards organised by The Industry Newspaper Limited.

Onyemelukwe was adjudged the winner of the category by the award jury led by Mr. Tolulope Ogunjobi, Business Editor at TVC News after a painstaking debate and analysis among the members.

Others in the category are Funder/CEO of the SERAs Awards, Ken Egbas, Chief Executive Officer of OVL Foundation and Kratos Sustainability Consults Ltd, Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, and CEO of CSR-in-Action, Bekeme Masade-Olowola.

Speaking on the awards, Ogunjobi, Business Editor at TVC News Nigeria, said: ‘We carefully evaluated all nominations based on their contributions to the field in the last one year.

“Her dedication, expertise, and innovative approach to the sustainability industry in the country have truly made a significant impact, and we are honoured to recognize your achievements.”

Onyemelukwe is a recognised CSR and sustainability advocate in Nigeria’s FMCG sector. At Coca-Cola Nigeria, she has led the company’s environmental initiatives, particularly the “World Without Waste” campaign aimed at plastic recycling and pollution reduction. Her work also includes community projects focused on clean water, education, and women empowerment.

According to the convener of the awards, Goddie Ofose “This prestigious award is a testament to her hard work, commitment, and passion for excellence in the sustainability industry, especially her role as senior director in sustainability at The Coca-Cola Company.

“Your contributions have not only elevated the standards of the industry but have also inspired others to strive for excellence,” Ofose added.

In her current role, Onyemelukwe is the architect of Coca-Cola’s compelling corporate narrative in Nigeria, seamlessly integrating sustainability into the brand’s core business strategy. Her stewardship ensures that Coca-Cola’s operations in Nigeria not only thrive commercially but also contribute positively to environmental stewardship and community development.

Under her leadership, Coca-Cola has amplified its efforts in recycling and waste management. She has been crucial in localising this vision for the total beverage giant in Nigeria and it has made significant strides in promoting environmentally friendly practices and reducing its environmental footprint.

She has also been pivotal in engaging stakeholders across sectors to foster a circular economy and ensure plastic circularity, while also emphasising the importance of caring for the environment. Recently, she played an instrumental role in facilitating investments in recycling infrastructure by the company in the country.

Beyond environmental sustainability, Onyemelukwe is a fervent advocate for women’s empowerment. She has championed initiatives that provide economic opportunities and leadership development for women within and beyond Coca-Cola’s ecosystem