PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc has appointed Oghale Joseph Elueni as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Dimitrios Kostianis, who will step down from the role effective May 31, 2026.
The appointment, approved by the company’s Board of Directors and subject to ratification at the next annual general meeting, marks a significant leadership transition for one of Nigeria’s longest-standing consumer goods companies.
Elueni assumes the role from June 1, 2026, after serving as managing director of PZ Cussons Nigeria’s consumer business since 2021. Before joining the company, he held senior leadership positions at SC Johnson and Procter & Gamble, overseeing operations across Africa and the United States.
With more than two decades of experience in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, Elueni brings extensive expertise in commercial strategy, business growth, and market development across both Nigerian and international markets.
The board said his appointment reflects confidence in his leadership capabilities, deep understanding of the business, and ability to drive the company’s long-term strategic objectives.
A Leadership Handover After a Period of Recovery
The transition comes after a notable period of recovery under Kostianis, who led the company through one of the most challenging economic environments in recent Nigerian history. During his tenure, PZ Cussons Nigeria recorded significant progress in restoring profitability and rebuilding its financial position despite persistent foreign exchange pressures, inflationary challenges, and rising operating costs that have affected many manufacturers across the country.
Kostianis, who has spent approximately 30 years within the broader PZ Cussons Group, is leaving Nigeria to take on a new role within the multinational organisation. Commenting on the leadership changes, Board Chair Ifueko M. Omoigui Okauru credited Kostianis with helping to position the business for future growth while navigating difficult macroeconomic conditions.
She also expressed confidence in Elueni’s ability to lead the company through its next phase of development.
Nigeria Remains Strategic to PZ Cussons
The announcement comes as PZ Cussons reiterates its commitment to the Nigerian market, where the company has maintained a continuous presence since 1899.
Group Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Myers described the appointments as coming at an important moment in the company’s evolution, reaffirming the group’s intention to continue investing in and expanding its Nigerian operations. The leadership change highlights the importance of Nigeria within PZ Cussons’ global portfolio and signals continuity in the company’s strategy despite broader economic headwinds facing the consumer goods sector.
As competition intensifies and consumer spending remains under pressure, industry observers will be watching closely to see how Elueni leverages his experience to sustain growth, strengthen market share, and build on the financial progress achieved in recent years.
